Top 10 Famous Statues in India You Must See

Statues serve as enduring symbols of culture, history, and spirituality across the globe. Each country has its iconic statues, often built to honor gods, legendary figures, or historical leaders. India, with its rich cultural and historical tapestry, is home to some of the most impressive statues in the world. Among these, the Statue of Unity stands out as the tallest statue on Earth. However, the significance of these statues extends beyond their height; it’s about their impact and the stories they tell. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 famous statues in India as of 2024, highlighting their unique features and the reasons behind their fame.

Top 10 Most Famous Statues in India

1. Statue of Unity, Gujarat

At the top of our list is the Statue of Unity, which commands attention not only in India but globally. Standing at an incredible height of 182 meters (597 feet), this monument is the tallest statue in the world. Located near Kevadia in Gujarat, the statue honors Vallabhbhai Patel, the first Deputy Prime Minister of India, who played a crucial role in uniting the princely states to form modern India. The construction of this colossal statue required 1,700 metric tons of bronze and 18,500 metric tons of reinforced steel. Inaugurated on October 31, 2018, the Statue of Unity has become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world to Gujarat.

2. Statue of Belief, Rajasthan

Next on our list is the Statue of Belief, also known as Vishwas Swaroopam, located in Nathdwara, Rajasthan. This impressive statue stands 106 meters (348 feet) tall and is the tallest statue of Lord Shiva in the world. The statue portrays Lord Shiva in a serene and contemplative pose, symbolizing peace and enlightenment. Completed in 2020 and unveiled on October 29, 2022, the Statue of Belief is built from concrete and steel, ensuring its durability for future generations.

3. Statue of Equality, Telangana

The Statue of Equality, situated in Telangana, is dedicated to the revered philosopher and saint Ramanujacharya. This statue, which ranks third in height among Indian statues, reaches approximately 65.8 meters (216 feet). Inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 5, 2022, the statue is crafted from panchaloha, a sacred alloy of five metals that symbolizes unity and harmony. The Statue of Equality stands as a tribute to Ramanujacharya’s teachings and his contributions to promoting equality and social justice.

4. Dhyana Buddha Statue, Andhra Pradesh

The Dhyana Buddha Statue in Amaravathi, Andhra Pradesh, stands 38.1 meters tall and depicts Lord Buddha in a meditative posture. Located on the serene banks of the Krishna River, this statue was inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh on January 19, 2024. The base of the statue houses intricately designed meditation halls and museums showcasing Buddhist artifacts. This statue attracts both spiritual seekers and tourists, offering a place for reflection and peace.

5. Veera Abhaya Anjaneya Hanuman Swami, Andhra Pradesh

In Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, the Veera Abhaya Anjaneya Hanuman Swami statue stands at 41 meters (135 feet) and is the tallest statue of Lord Hanuman in the world. Completed in 2003, this statue symbolizes strength and devotion. Located in the Paritala Anjaneya Temple, it draws a significant number of pilgrims and visitors who come to admire the statue and the surrounding temple complex.

6. Thiruvalluvar Statue, Tamil Nadu

The Thiruvalluvar Statue, located in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, stands nearly 41 meters tall and is dedicated to the Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar. Erected in 2000, this statue was crafted by the renowned sculptor Dr. V. Ganapati Sthapati. The height of the statue—133 feet—represents the 133 chapters of Thiruvalluvar’s seminal work, the “Tirukkural.” This monument serves as a tribute to Thiruvalluvar’s wisdom and literary contributions.

7. Padmasambhava Statue, Himachal Pradesh

The Padmasambhava Statue, located beside Rewalsar Lake in Himachal Pradesh, stands at 37.5 meters (123 feet) and was unveiled in 2012. This statue depicts Guru Padmasambhava, who is credited with introducing Buddhism to Tibet. The statue’s serene presence and the surrounding natural beauty of Rewalsar Lake, which holds sacred significance in Buddhism, Hinduism, and Sikhism, make it a significant pilgrimage site.

8. Murudeshwar Shiva Statue, Karnataka

The Murudeshwar Shiva Statue in Karnataka is a 37-meter-tall (122 feet) depiction of Lord Shiva. This statue, which is the second tallest Shiva statue in the world, was completed in 1979 by sculptor Kashinath and philanthropist R. N. Shetty. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Arabian Sea, the statue is renowned for its detailed craftsmanship, including Shiva’s trident and the serpent. It remains a major attraction for visitors to Karnataka.

9. Tathagata Tsal, Sikkim

The Tathagata Tsal, also known as the Buddha Park of Ravangla, is home to a majestic 39-meter (130 feet) statue of Lord Buddha. This statue, the tallest Buddha statue in India, was unveiled in 2013 to mark the 2550th anniversary of Gautama Buddha’s birth. The project, a collaboration between the Sikkim government and local communities, aims to boost tourism and promote Buddhist teachings.

10. Adiyogi Shiva Statue, Tamil Nadu

Rounding out our list is the Adiyogi Shiva Statue, located near Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Standing 34 meters (112 feet) tall, this statue was unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Mahashivaratri in 2017. Designed by Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev and constructed by the Isha Foundation, this statue represents Shiva as the first yogi. It holds the distinction of being the largest bust sculpture in the world and symbolizes spiritual well-being and the practice of yoga.

Conclusion

India’s landscape is adorned with statues that reflect its rich heritage and spiritual depth. From the towering Statue of Unity in Gujarat to the serene Adiyogi Shiva Statue in Tamil Nadu, these famous statues in India are not only architectural marvels but also symbols of cultural and historical significance. Each statue tells a story of devotion, leadership, and artistry, making them important landmarks in the country’s diverse tapestry. If you’re in India and haven’t yet visited these awe-inspiring monuments, they are definitely worth exploring.