Arun Yogiraj, Sculptor Behind Ram Lalla Idol, Denied US Visa

Arun Yogiraj, the sculptor behind the Ram Lalla idol at Ayodhya's Ram Mandir, and his family have been denied visas to the United States. Sources indicate that no explanation has been provided by US authorities for this decision.

Yogiraj had submitted his visa application in June to attend a special event in the US. The programme was organised to honour him for his contributions to the Ram Mandir project. The event was set to be a global recognition of his talent and work.

Event Details and Family's Disappointment

The Association of Kannada Kootas of America had invited Yogiraj and his family to the World Kannada Conference-2024 in Richmond, Virginia. Despite their anticipation, the US Embassy has not offered any reason for rejecting their visa applications. This has left Yogiraj's family deeply disappointed.

Yogiraj is known for carving the Ram Lalla idol installed at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya this January. He comes from a lineage of esteemed sculptors and pursued an MBA before dedicating himself to sculpting full-time in 2008.

Notable Works by Arun Yogiraj

Among his notable works are a 30-feet statue of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose near India Gate, a 12-feet sculpture of Adi Shankaracharya in Kedarnath, and a 21-feet statue of Lord Hanuman in Mysuru. These creations have earned him recognition across India.

The invitation from the US-based organisation aimed to celebrate these achievements on an international platform. However, with the visa denial, this opportunity remains unfulfilled.

The family's disappointment stems from missing out on an event that would have acknowledged Arun's significant contributions to Indian art and culture globally.

This visa rejection has raised questions among many about the reasons behind such decisions, especially when it involves individuals being honoured for their cultural contributions.

The lack of clarity from the US Embassy adds to the frustration felt by those who were looking forward to celebrating Arun's work on an international stage.

Despite this setback, Arun Yogiraj continues to be celebrated within India for his exceptional skills and dedication to sculpting.