Statue of Unity: The World’s Tallest Statue stands as a monumental tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s Iron Man. This towering structure, the tallest statue in the world, rises 182 meters above the landscape on Sadhu Bet Island. Inaugurated on October 31, 2018, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the statue commemorates Patel’s 143rd birth anniversary. As you approach the statue, you are immediately struck by its grandeur and the breathtaking views of the Vindhya and Satpura mountain ranges.
The First Glimpse
When you first catch sight of the Statue of Unity (SoU) as you speed down the winding road leading to it, one word comes to mind: gigantic! This towering statue stands proudly on Sadhu Bet Island, connected to the mainland by a long bridge. Surrounded by the VIndhya and Satpura mountain ranges, the colossal statue seems to pierce the sky itself.
India’s Iron Man
The Statue of Unity honors Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s Iron Man, whose legacy of unity and strength continues to inspire the nation. Towering over the landscape, Sardar Patel’s statue keeps watch over the land he played a crucial role in making independent.
At a staggering height of 182 meters, the Statue of Unity is the tallest statue in the world, depicting Sardar Patel in a walking pose, dressed in his simple, characteristic attire. It is so enormous that it can be seen from as far away as 8 kilometers.
Inauguration & Location
This awe-inspiring statue was inaugurated on October 31 2018, by Prime Minister Narendrabhai Damodardas Modi, commemorating Sardar Patel’s 143rd birth anniversary. The base of the statue, built on Sadhu Hill, is a star -shaped geometric structure that spans the entire hill, A viewing gallery at 135 meters, located at the statue’s chest level, can be accessed via two high-speed elevators. Visitors first pass through an exhibition gallery showcasing a model of the statue, an elaborate blueprint, and other intriguing exhibits.
Breathtaking Views
The elevators, traveling 150 meters in just 30 seconds, can carry 26 people at a time. From the Viewing gallery, reinforced with steel grids, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the distant Sardar Sarovar reservoir. The statue not only highlights Patel’s life and achievements but also features a spectacular laser show.
This show delves into Patel’s life outlining his significant contributions on the nation and the reasons behind the statue’s erection in his honor. The show includes realistic projections of Patel in different phases of his life, from his days as a lawyer to his involvement in the ‘Bharat Chodo’ movement, and his signature kurta pajama attire.
Engineering Marvel
Constructed by engineering giant Larsen and Tourbo, the Statue of Unity was completed in a record time of 33 months. It stands 177 feet taller than the Spring Temple Buddha statue in China, which is the second tallest statue in the world and took 11 years to build. The SoU comprises two semi-joined, composite concrete cylindrical cores surrounded by a steel space frame that supports the external cladding.
The Sculptor’s Masterpiece
The statue’s face, sculpted by 93-year-old Ram Sutar, is particularly noteworthy. It portrays Patel with a poised countenance, his head held high, and his arms at his sides, appearing to walk on water towards the Sardar Sarovar Dam with his left leg slightly forward.
Achieving the perfect posture for the statue was a challenge. Engineers scanned around 2,000 photographs and consulted several historians before choosing the final image. A 2-dimensional photograph was then transformed into a 3-dimensional model to create the final design.
A Symbol of Unity and Strength
The Statue of Unity stands as a testament to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s enduring legacy. It is a symbol of unity and strength, reminding us of Patel’s vital role in India’s independence and his dedication to the nation’s integrity.
Visiting the statue is a truly humbling experience, offering a glimpse into the life and contributions of one of India’s greatest leaders. Whether you are viewing the statue from a distance or standing in the viewing gallery, the sheer scale and grandeur of the Statue of Unity are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Also Read:
