Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh Department of Culture has sanctioned ₹1,23,42,000 for the installation of statues of prominent historical figures, saints, and deities across several districts including Prayagraj, Etah, Banda, Sitapur, Jhansi, and Ayodhya for the financial year 2024–25.
According to State Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh, the funds have been allocated based on proposals received for the installation of statues of late leaders such as former Chief Minister Kalyan Singh and Kamala Bahuguna, as well as revered figures like Bhakt Prahlad, Lord Narsingh, Lord Surya Narayan, Lord Ganesha, and Maharishi Valmiki.
Shraddha Shukla, Director of the State Lalit Kala Akademi, has been appointed as the nodal officer for overseeing the construction and installation of these statues.
Breakdown of Sanctioned Funds
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Prayagraj: ₹6.60 lakh has been allocated for a 5-foot bronze statue of late Kamala Bahuguna.
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Etah: ₹19.75 lakh for a 12.5-foot standing statue of former Chief Minister Babu Kalyan Singh.
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Banda: ₹27.05 lakh approved for a 12.5-foot equestrian bronze statue of Rani Avanti Bai Holkar.
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Sitapur: ₹14.81 lakh for a 12.5-foot bronze statue of Mahant Avaidyanath Ji.
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Jhansi: ₹4.95 lakh for a statue of Bhakt Prahlad and ₹21.18 lakh for a statue of Lord Narsingh.
In Ayodhya, which continues to be a cultural and religious hub, the following installations have been approved:
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₹2.56 lakh for a statue of Lord Surya Narayan
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₹12.50 lakh for a statue of Lord Ganesha
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₹14.01 lakh for a statue of Maharishi Valmiki
Cultural Significance
Minister Jaiveer Singh emphasized that these installations aim to preserve and promote the state’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. “Through these statues, we hope to inspire future generations and pay tribute to those who have shaped our religious, political, and historical identity,” he said.
