“Did you know that the original statue of Swami Vivekananda here at Golpark was made of marble?” Let’s delve into the story of this iconic Swami Vivekananda Statue. It stands as a tribute to a spiritual leader.
The Swami Vivekananda Statue before you marks a significant landmark in South Kolkata. Golpark is a circle shaped park. It is surrounded by a busy traffic roundabout. Right in the middle stands this statue.
Originally, a marble statue stood here. It was installed in 1966. That statue was seven feet tall. For many years, it was Kolkata’s oldest Swami Vivekananda statue.
But time and the city’s growth brought change. By 2005, new high rises dwarfed the marble statue. Devotees wanted a grander tribute to Vivekananda. The Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture decided to replace the old statue.
The current bronze Swami Vivekananda Statue was erected in 2005. Anit Ghosh from the Government College of Art & Craft created it. This statue stands twelve feet high. It is mounted on an eight foot tall cement pedestal.
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation supported the project. They provided ₹1.2 million for the statue. The mayor at the time said devotees had requested a giant statue. It would better suit the developing Gol Park area.
Swami Gahanananda, president of the institute, oversaw the replacement. He recognized the need for a statue that matched Golpark’s urban development.
Swami Vivekananda founded the Ramakrishna Mission. The Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture is just across the street. It is located close to the Swami Vivekananda Statue. The institute continues to spread Vivekananda’s teachings.
In 2006, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation gave the Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture responsibility for maintaining Golpark. In 2010, the park underwent a major renovation. The Times Foundation funded new lighting for the statue.
Every day, countless people pass by this statue. They are reminded of Swami Vivekananda’s message. It echoes his call for spiritual awakening. It inspires service to humanity.
This Swami Vivekananda Statue is more than just a sculpture. It embodies the spirit of a man. He inspired a nation. He shared his wisdom with the world. Take a moment to reflect on his teachings. Remember his legacy as you stand before this inspiring statue.