Statue of Unity A Symbol of Unity and Pride – The Statue of Unity is a colossal statue located in the state of Gujarat, India. It was built to honor Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a prominent leader during India’s struggle for independence and the country’s first Deputy Prime Minister. The statue, which is the world’s tallest statue, stands 182 meters tall and is located on the banks of the Narmada River in the town of Kevadia. The construction of the statue was completed in October 2018, and it was inaugurated by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 31st October 2018, the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
History
The idea of constructing a statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was first proposed in 2010 by the Gujarat government, led by then-Chief Minister Narendra Modi. The statue was intended to be a tribute to Patel’s contributions to the Indian freedom struggle and his efforts in unifying India after independence.
Construction
The construction of the statue was a massive undertaking that required the expertise of engineers and workers from across the world. The statue was built by Larsen & Toubro, a leading Indian engineering and construction company. The statue’s core is made of reinforced concrete, and the exterior is made of bronze panels. The statue’s base includes a museum, an exhibition hall, and a viewing gallery from where visitors can see the surrounding landscape.
Features
The Statue of Unity has several unique features that make it an engineering marvel. The statue’s height of 182 meters makes it the tallest statue in the world, surpassing the previous record held by the Spring Temple Buddha in China. The statue’s location on the banks of the Narmada River offers a stunning view of the surrounding landscape. The statue is also equipped with several modern amenities, including a high-speed elevator that takes visitors to the viewing gallery in just under a minute.
Significance
The Statue of Unity holds immense significance for the people of India. It serves as a symbol of unity and pride for the country, commemorating one of the most important leaders of the Indian freedom struggle. The statue has also been instrumental in boosting tourism in the region, as thousands of visitors come to see the statue every year. The statue’s location on the banks of the Narmada River has also led to the development of several other tourist attractions in the region, including a riverfront park, a butterfly park, and a cactus garden.
Controversies
Despite the statue’s widespread popularity, it has also been the subject of some controversies. Critics have questioned the statue’s high cost, which was estimated to be around 3,000 crore rupees (approximately $430 million). Some have also raised concerns about the statue’s impact on the environment, as the construction of the statue required the displacement of several thousand tribal people from the surrounding area.
Conclusion
The Statue of Unity is a magnificent engineering marvel that serves as a symbol of unity and pride for the people of India. It is a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage and its commitment to honoring its heroes. While it has been the subject of some controversies, there is no denying the statue’s significance in India’s history and its role in boosting tourism in the region.
FAQs
- Who proposed the idea of the Statue of Unity?
The idea of the Statue of Unity was proposed by the Gujarat government, led by then-Chief Minister Narendra Modi, in 2010.
2. What is the height of the Statue of Unity?
The Statue of Unity is 182 meters tall, making it the tallest statue in the world.
