A 40-year-old teacher and miniature artist from Odisha has crafted a five-and-a-half-inch-long replica of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, in anticipation of its consecration ceremony on January 22.

Eshwar Rao utilized materials like paper, matchsticks, and chalk to create the intricately detailed model. The temple stands at five-and-a-half inches in height and 2-and-a-half inches in width, featuring a one-inch-tall figure of Lord Hanuman made from chalk, placed in front of the temple.

Expressing his devotion to Lord Hanuman, Rao dedicated seven days to meticulously crafting the miniature temple. He described this period as the “best days” of his life, spent in continuous prayer to Lord Sri Ram throughout the creative process.

Rao, a teacher by profession, clarified that his miniature artworks, which include creations for occasions like World Cup tournaments, Ganesh Puja, and Christmas, are not for monetary gain. He finds satisfaction in people’s interest and appreciation for his art. He earns his livelihood as an art teacher in a public school in Bhubaneswar.

Emphasizing that self-satisfaction holds more importance for an artist than financial gain, Rao, who embarked on his artistic journey at the age of 19, mentioned that Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has praised his work. He expressed a desire to showcase his creation to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, saying, “I will be very happy if I get a chance to show it to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.”

Source: PTI