Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai has reportedly hinted at unveiling the bronze statue of Nadaprabhu Kempegowda soon. After inspecting the progress of the statue’s installation at the Kempegowda International Airport (KIA), the CM also informed the media that the statue will be introduced during the inauguration of Terminal-2 of the international airport. Know more on SURFACES REPORTER (SR).
Touted to be the founder of Bengaluru City, Nadaprabhu Kempegowda was a chieftain under the Vijayanagara Empire. The humungous bronze statue of Kempegowda will be 108 ft tall and weigh 220 ton. The statue will come up on 23 acre area of the airport, which will be an inspiration for all the development works undertaken by the government by showcasing the heritage park.
The statue has been designed by Padma Bhushan Ram V Sutar, who is also known to have created the Statue of Unity in Gujarat. To accelerate its work, a mammoth-sized bronze sword weighing nearly 4,000 kg has been brought in a special truck from Delhi. The 35 ft long sword was welcomed by Karnataka Minister for Higher Education CN Ashwath Narayan, who performed the shakti puja.
The foundation stone for the project was laid in June 2020, marking the 511th birth anniversary of Kempegowda. Currently, the statue is in its final stages of completion and is expected to be completed this year.
Image credits: Hindustan Time