Nathdwara, a spiritual heaven in the heart of Rajasthan, India, has welcomed a magnificent addition to its landscape – the ‘Statue of Belief’ or ‘Vishwas Swaroopam.’ This awe-inspiring statue of Lord Shiva stands at a towering 369 feet, making it one of the world’s largest Shiva statues and one of the five largest statues globally. As of its inauguration on October 29, 2022, it has become a remarkable pilgrimage site.
Concept and Vision
The concept for the Statue of Belief was conceived by Mr. Madan Paliwal, Chairman of Miraj Group, Udaipur, with the vision of creating a giant statue of Lord Shiva on Ganesh Tekri, a hillock in Nathdwara. His goal was to put Nathdwara on the world’s tourist map, making it a must-visit for pilgrims and travelers alike. Renowned studio Maturam Art played a pivotal role in designing the 369-feet-high statue, while the structural design was executed by Skeleton Consultants. Shapoorji Pallonji E&C took charge of constructing the statue and associated amenities.
Construction and Design
The Statue of Belief boasts a three-layered design. The innermost layer consists of four reinforced cement concrete (RCC) core walls that rise from the hillock’s base, forming the statue’s structural core. The second layer features a structural steel framework, while the third layer comprises a concrete shell constructed from ultra-high-performance concrete molded to the statue’s profile. All three layers are intricately connected, resulting in a masterpiece that faithfully captures the details, expressions, features, and emotions of Lord Shiva.
The statue’s surface has been coated with zinc for increased durability, extending its lifespan to 250 years. It can withstand wind speeds of up to 250 kmph and earthquakes of Zone IV intensity, despite Nathdwara being located in Zone II.
Incredible Features and Amenities
The interior of the Statue of Belief houses an exhibition hall and public viewing galleries accessible via elevators at heights of 20 feet, 110 feet, and 270 feet. A 25-foot-tall statue of Nandi, Lord Shiva’s celestial bull and vehicle, stands in reverence to Shiva, facing the deity. The surroundings of this majestic statue offer a host of facilities, including parking, pavements, a water body, bridges, landscaping, an amphitheater, a food court, handicraft shops, and an amusement park for children.
A water jet at the apex of the statue symbolizes the Holy River Ganga flowing from Shiva’s matted hair. The statue offers two viewing galleries at heights of 270 feet and 280 feet, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
A Landmark for Pilgrims and Travelers
The ‘Statue of Belief’ serves as a testament to faith and devotion. It has quickly become a landmark in Nathdwara, drawing pilgrims, devotees, and tourists from far and wide. Its grandeur and spiritual significance make it a must-visit destination, offering an opportunity to witness the divine power of belief and capture the incredible views of Rajasthan. The Statue of Belief stands as a magnificent tribute to Lord Shiva and a symbol of unwavering faith.