Mysuru sculptor Arun Yogiraj to create busts of Valmiki, Bhagiratha and Kanakadasa at DC’s Office

Chamarajanagar: In a culturally significant move, the Chamarajanagar District Administration has decided to install busts of Maharshi Valmiki, Bhagiratha Maharshi and Kanakadasa in the premises of the District Administrative Complex (DC’s Office).

The project is estimated at Rs. 1.50 crore and has been entrusted to renowned Mysuru-based sculptor Arun Yogiraj, known internationally for his work on the idol of Balak Ram at Ayodhya Sri Ram Mandir. Marking the formal commencement of the initiative, District in-Charge Minister K. Venkatesh felicitated Arun Yogiraj on Monday at the DC’s Office.

The groundwork for the bust installation had earlier received a ceremonial launch through a Bhoomi Puja performed by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

The administrative complex already features a bust of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The upcoming busts — matching in scale — will be installed at the same location. The State Government has sanctioned Rs. 50 lakh for each bust, with a total budget allocation of Rs. 1.50 crore. Funds have been disbursed to the Department of Kannada and Culture.

Public demand spurs move

This initiative is in response to persistent public appeals urging the administration to honour revered cultural and historical icons by installing their busts. 

Minister Venkatesh, acknowledging this public sentiment, has taken a personal interest in seeing the project through.

The selection of Arun Yogiraj was also influenced by strong public support, given his growing national reputation and artistic excellence. The sculptor has officially accepted the commission to craft all three busts.

Chamarajanagar DC Shilpa Nag stated that reference photographs have been provided to the sculptor and the busts will be carved using high-quality materials to ensure both aesthetic and structural excellence.

The blueprint for the busts is expected to be finalised by the end of July, with actual sculpting and installation to be completed within the following three months. Minister Venkatesh is personally overseeing the progress while the District Administration has pledged full support to the sculptor throughout the execution phase.