THE wife of sculptor Arun Yogiraj, Vijetha, expressed her joy and pride as her husband played a pivotal role in crafting the Ram Lala idol in Ayodhya. Vijetha said that during the process of crafting the Ram Lala idol, Arun Yogiraj, embraced a ‘lifestyle akin to that of a sage’, observing a six-month-long fast with a diet limited to ‘satvik bhojan’, fruits, and sprouts. She highlighted Arun’s unconventional journey, noting that he initially pursued an MBA in HR and worked as a Manager in HR before delving into his sculpting heritage.

 

Arun Yogiraj, the fifth generation in a family of sculptors, started carving at the age of 11 and has since become a symbol of their family’s rich tradition, she said. Vijetha shared, “We never thought about this, but yes, Arun has so much talent. We were hoping that something like this should happen to him, and his art should be recognised and appreciated worldwide.” Vijetha expressed the family’s happiness and pride, stating, “Arun has made us proud. Our family name and tradition have reached the sky.” Vijetha Arun revealed that the family plans to visit Ayodhya after the event, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming love and blessings they received from people across the country.

 

Streetlights on flyovers decorated with artworks depicting Lord Ram, his bow and arrow and ornamental lamp posts carrying designs themed on the traditional ‘Ramanandi tilak’, Ayodhya is all decked up ahead of the consecration ceremony at the temple. While travelling on the highway from Lucknow to Ayodhya, one can see huge posters bearing an image of the Ram temple, the date of the consecration ceremony and slogans like ‘Shubh Ghadi Aayi, Viraje Raghuraii’, dotting the roads.