Ennadi Rakkama Remix

Tallest Muruga statue unveiled in Malaysia

Tens of thousands of Hindus and onlookers gathered near the popular Batu Caves temple near here to witness the unveiling of a gigantic statue of Lord Muruga, reportedly the tallest in the world. Flowers were showered from helicopters on the 42.7 metre statue, crafted by Indian sculptors, located outside the popular Subramanya temple in Batu Caves. The unveiling of the huge statue, which cost approximately Rs 2.4 crore to make, is made of 1,550 cubic metres of concrete, 250 tonnes of steel bars and 300 litres of gold paint brought in from neighbouring Thailand. It has been crafted by 15 Indian sculptors who worked more than three years on the project. Temple officials plan to seek the recognition of the Guinness Book of World Records for the statue as the tallest Lord Muruga statue in the world, chairman of the temple R Nadarajah said. The statue has been unveiled two weeks ahead of the largely popular Thai Poosam festival which will be celebrated on February 11 when thousands of Hindus and foreigners climb the more than 200 steps of the Batu Caves to visit the temple of Lord Muruga.