Arun Yogiraj, a renowned sculptor hailing from Agrahara, Mysore, in Karnataka, India, is a noteworthy figure in the field of sculpture, with his works reflecting a blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary themes.
Born into a family with a legacy of five generations of sculptors, Yogiraj has carved a unique niche for himself in this artistic lineage. His father, Yogiraj, and grandfather, Basavanna Shilpi, were esteemed sculptors, setting a solid foundation for his creative journey.
Table of Contents
Arun Yogiraj Biography
Age
He was born in 1983 and is 41 years old as of 27th April 2024.
Early Influences and Artistic Awakening
Arun’s early years were immersed in the world of sculpting. He spent countless hours observing his father and grandfather, Yogiraj and Basavanna Shilpi, renowned sculptors who had established a legacy of artistry in Mysore, Karnataka. Their meticulous techniques, attention to detail, and ability to breathe life into inanimate objects captivated young Arun, igniting a passion that would forever shape his life.
Education and Career
Yogiraj’s education includes an MBA, after which he worked in a private company before embracing sculpting as his full-time profession in 2008. This transition marked a significant turning point in his career, allowing him to dedicate himself to the art of sculpting fully.
Notable Works of Arun Yogiraj
Arun Yogiraj’s portfolio stands as a testament to his exceptional skills and artistic mastery. His notable works include:
- Ram Lalla Idol for Ayodhya Temple: Arun’s most celebrated work is undoubtedly the idol of Ram Lalla, the child form of Lord Rama, for the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya. This exquisitely crafted statue, imbued with childlike innocence and divine grace, has touched the hearts of millions.
- Hanuman statue at Chunchanakatte: The 21-foot-tall Hanuman statue at Chunchanakatte in Mysore district is another remarkable creation by Arun Yogiraj. This imposing statue stands as a symbol of strength, devotion, and unwavering faith. The intricate details, the lifelike expression on Hanuman’s face, and the overall grandeur of the statue make it a breathtaking sight.
- Adi Shankaracharya Statue at Kedarnath: Situated at the Kedarnath Temple, Arun’s 12-foot statue of Adi Shankaracharya, the great Hindu philosopher and spiritual leader, exudes an aura of tranquility and wisdom.
- Subhash Chandra Bose Statue at India Gate: This 30-foot bronze statue of the legendary freedom fighter stands proudly at India Gate, symbolizing national pride and honoring the legacy of a true hero.
These remarkable creations, along with numerous other notable works, have earned Arun Yogiraj widespread acclaim and recognition. He has received accolades from esteemed organizations and individuals, including a personal appreciation letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his exceptional artistic contributions.
Arun Yogiraj Awards
Yogiraj’s talent has been recognized with several awards, including the South Zone Young Artist award by the Government of India in 2014, the Rajyothsava award by the Mysuru District administration, the Jakanachari Award by the Karnataka government in 2021, and the Shilpa Kousthubha honorific by the Sculptors Association.
Personal Life
In his personal life, Arun Yogiraj is married to Vijetha and has a brother and a sister. His brother Suryaprakash, also a sculptor, lives with them in Mysore. Yogiraj’s dedication to his craft and his ability to infuse life into stone has earned him respect and admiration both from the general public and notable individuals, including the Mysore royal family.
Arun Yogiraj Family Photos
Passing the Legacy Forward: Nurturing Artistic Talent
Arun Yogiraj is not merely a sculptor; he is a custodian of Mysore’s rich sculpting tradition. Recognizing the importance of preserving and nurturing artistic heritage, he actively mentors young aspiring sculptors, sharing his knowledge, expertise, and passion for the art. His dedication to fostering the next generation of artistic talent is a testament to his commitment to perpetuating the legacy of his family and the sculpting community.
Arun Yogiraj Contacts
Website: arunyogiraj.com
Address: Arun Yogiraj, No. 9, Chamaraja Road, Mysuru, Karnataka 570004
Timings : 10 AM to 6 PM, Sunday Holiday
Phone : +91 98861 43188, +91 99451 51505
Email : [email protected]
Instagram: arun_yogiraj
As Arun continues to shape the world with his art, he stands as a testament to the enduring power of sculpture to touch hearts, ignite imaginations, and inspire generations to come. His legacy lies not only in his exquisite creations but also in his unwavering dedication to preserving the art form and nurturing the next generation of artistic talent. As he continues to sculpt with passion and precision, Arun Yogiraj leaves an indelible mark on the world of art, his name forever etched among the great master sculptors of India.