Texas: A huge statue of Lord Hanuman has been installed in Houston, Texas, USA. The Prana Pratishtha program was held during a big ceremony in Houston. During this, the 90 feet high statue of Lord Hanuman has been unveiled.
According to media reports, this is the third largest statue of Lord Hanuman in America. This statue has been named ‘Statue of Union’. According to the information, this statue commemorates the role of Lord Hanuman in the reunion of Shri Ram and Sita. This temple has been built at Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple in Sugar Land, Texas. The visionary behind this project is His Holiness Sri Chinnajiyar Swamiji.
The Statue of Union website states that this statue is the tallest statue of Lord Hanuman in North America, which “symbolizes strength, devotion and selfless service.” The website states, “This is an opportunity for us as a community to pave the way for future generations to receive the divine blessings of Lord Hanuman.”
Describing the statue, the website says, “Housed at the Sri Ashtalakshmi Mandir in Sugar Land, Texas, the Panchaloha Abhaya Hanuman will be 90 feet tall – radiating benevolence, strength and hope. The Sangh’s statue is about creating a spiritual center where hearts find solace, minds find peace and spirits find upliftment.” “Let’s bring to life the dream of North America’s tallest Hanuman statue and together continue to build a world filled with love, peace and devotion,” it adds.
Hanuman is typically worshipped in temples dedicated to the god or as a supporting figure in temples dedicated to Rama. Hanuman’s story has been adapted by different cultures over the decades. However, the oldest story is found in the Sanskrit Ramayana of sage Valmiki.
The Hindu American Foundation says, “To rescue his wife, Rama, along with his brother Lakshmana, form an alliance with the intelligent monkey warrior race called the Vanaras, among whom is Hanuman. Hanuman demonstrates extraordinary abilities in Rama’s service throughout the adventure, including speed, strength, courage, and intelligence; the friendship between the two develops and deepens, ultimately proving that Hanuman’s greatest ability is actually his incredibly steadfast loyalty and devotion.”