A 51-foot-tall statue of Lord Ram, which is being called the tallest statue of Lord Ram in North America, has recently been unveiled in Mississauga. Inspired by India’s Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya, the work to build the statue began four years ago and the parts were built in Delhi, to be assembled only in Canada. The steel framework is so strong that it can last a hundred years and can withstand winds at the speed of 200km/h. According to reports, passengers landing at the Toronto Pearson International Airport can see the idol from their planes. Mississauga mayor Carolyn Parish called the inauguration of the statue a “landmark for Mississauga’s Hindu community”.“Inauguration of incredible 51ft Ram ji moortie at the Hindu Heritage Centre in Streetsville on Sunday August 3/25. Massive crowd witnessed the ceremony. A truly spectacular landmark for Mississauga’s Hindu community. All visitors to the site always receive a warm welcome,” the mayor posted on X. The ceremony was attended by several Canadian politicians, including international trade Minister Maninder Sidhu, minister of women and gender equality Rechie Valdez, and president of the treasury board Shafqat Ali.The statue has been erected on the premises of the Hindu Heritage Center in Mississauga. The center confirmed that the height of the idol is excluding the pedestal which is seven feet high and a proposed umbrella, which will be added in future. Sculptor Naresh Kumar Kumawat designed and crafted the idol at the Matu Ram Art Center in Manesar after it was commissioned by Indo-Canadian business leader Laj Prasher. “This is a spiritual gift to the community,” said Acharya Surinder Sharma Shastri, founder of the Hindu Heritage Centre. “The installation of this murti is not just a moment of pride, but also a reminder that righteousness must always be the guiding factor in our lives.”“To witness over 10,000 people come together in devotion and unity for the unveiling of Shri Ram’s 51-foot-tall murti was truly remarkable. This event was not just a celebration of our faith, but a proud moment for all Canadians who value cultural harmony and spiritual heritage,” organizer of the event Kushagr Sharma said.
