Saturday, October 21, 2023

World’s largest Bird Sculpture Jatayu in Kerala





The Jatayu sculpture in Kerala is an awe-inspiring sight, resting on its back with wings outstretched across 150ft. Spanning 200ft from tail feathers to head, with talons soaring 70ft high, it stands atop the 1,000 ft-high Jatayupara. The art piece covers severed wing, feet and body, showcasing its detailed profile, featuring a sharp beak, formidable talons, and a fierce, unwavering gaze fixed on its adversary.

After three nights stay in Thiruvantipuram we proceeded towards Alappuzha by road. The journey from Thiruvananthapuram to Alappuzha is a scenic one, and along the way, we come across a massive hill featuring a Jatayu sculpture. This impressive sculpture, created by the renowned sculptor Rajiv Anchal, adorns the hill's summit and was inaugurated in Aug 2018. The project incurred a substantial cost of 100 million rupees, making it a significant landmark in the region. The Jatayu sculpture pays homage to the mythological bird from the Ramayana and is a testament to the rich cultural and artistic heritage of Kerala.




Jatayu Earth Center, also known as Jatayu Nature Park or Jatayu Rock in Kollam district, Kerala, is situated at a significant altitude, 350 meters (1200 feet) above the mean sea level. 


Fortunate to snap the sculpture while traveling from Thiruvantipuram to Kochi Highway.

Moreover, the world's largest bird sculpture, depicting Jatayu, adds a unique and impressive dimension to the site, making it a remarkable attraction for both tourists and those interested in Indian mythology and culture.

Jatayu, from Hindu mythology, is a prominent character in the epic Ramayana and a Demi-God. He is a vulture-like bird and a loyal devotee of Lord Rama. In the Ramayana, Jatayu plays a crucial role in trying to save Sita from the demon king Ravana's abduction. 

Absolutely! Jatayu's incredible strength, resilience, and combat prowess were indeed legendary. His confrontation with Ravana showcased his formidable abilities – from overpowering Ravana's charioteer to destroying the chariot itself, enduring the barrage of arrows, and ultimately breaking Ravana's bow with sheer force.

Jatayu's physical capabilities and endurance were exceptional, to the extent that he could withstand powerful celestial weapons. His valiant efforts in the face of such a powerful adversary like Ravana highlight his extraordinary strength and unwavering determination. He valiantly fought Ravana but was ultimately defeated.

Jatayu's selfless act of trying to protect Sita symbolizes bravery, sacrifice, and devotion. The Jatayu sculpture you saw on the hilltop not only serves as a cultural and artistic marvel but also carries deep mythological and spiritual significance, reminding people of the timeless values and stories found in Indian epics.

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