Monumental Hanuman Statue Unveiled In Texas

Photo: X screengrab

India-West News Desk

SUGAR LAND, TX – In a grand ceremony at the Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple here, a towering 90-foot bronze statue of Lord Hanuman was unveiled, marking a significant milestone in the cultural and spiritual landscape of the state.

Named the “Statue of Union,” this massive sculpture is now the tallest Hanuman murti outside of India, the tallest statue in Texas, and the third tallest in the US, behind only the Statue of Liberty in New York and the Pegasus and Dragon in Florida, organizers said.

The “Prana Prathishta Mahotsavam” ceremony for the statue, held from August 15 to 18. The event, which coincided with India’s Independence Day, saw thousands of devotees gather to witness the installation of the statue, symbolizing “selflessness, devotion, and unity.”

Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swami, a Padma Bhushan awardee and Vedic scholar, spearheaded the project. He envisioned the statue as a spiritual epicenter for North America, emphasizing the importance of spreading devotion and unity across the continent. The ceremonies were led by him, alongside several Vedic priests and scholars, who performed elaborate rituals including the sprinkling of sacred water and the placement of a 72-foot garland around Hanuman’s neck. A helicopter also showered flowers upon the statue, adding to the spiritual grandeur of the event.

Despite the temple’s efforts to present the statue as a symbol of unity, it has ignited controversy among some conservative and Christian groups. Social media accounts and right-wing websites have labeled the statue “demonic,” with some claiming it could provoke divine retribution.