Patna, Bihar, is set to embark on an ambitious project to honor India’s first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, with a colossal statue, surpassing the height of the current world’s tallest statue, the Statue of Unity.
Standing at a staggering 243 meters (800 feet) tall, the proposed statue of Dr. Prasad would dwarf the iconic Statue of Unity in Gujarat, which stands at 182 meters. The number 243 holds a special significance, symbolizing the total number of members in the Bihar Vidhan Sabha, further connecting the monument to the state’s legislative heart.
This colossal figure will be perched atop a 200-foot pedestal, bringing the total height to a breathtaking 1,000 feet. The project proposal, spearheaded by Patna Mayor Sita Sahu, has already been approved by the Patna Municipal Corporation and forwarded to the Bihar state government for further consideration.
Proponents of the project envision the statue not just as a landmark but as a catalyst for progress. They believe it will:
- Boost tourism: The sheer scale and grandeur of the statue are expected to attract tourists from within India and across the globe, injecting a much-needed boost to Bihar’s tourism industry.
- Enhance Bihar’s identity: The monument would serve as a powerful symbol of Bihar’s rich history and heritage, placing the state firmly on the national and international map.
- Inspire future generations: The towering Dr. Prasad statue would stand as a constant reminder of his dedication to public service and inspire future generations to strive for excellence.
While the project’s feasibility and potential economic impact are yet to be fully evaluated, the ambitious proposal has undoubtedly ignited fervent discussions and sparked public imagination. Whether or not this colossal tribute to Dr. Rajendra Prasad materializes, it signifies Bihar’s aspirations to leave its mark on the world stage and celebrate its illustrious son in a truly unforgettable manner.
Experts suggest that it is bound to have a profound economic impact on the tourism and hospitality industry in the region. The Statue of Unity in Gujarat has become a powerful economic engine, drawing in tourists and generating significant business and employment opportunities. Its construction alone employed over 8,000 people, many from surrounding villages. The influx of tourists has fueled the growth of hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops, and transportation services, creating a vibrant local economy. Ticket sales, estimated at over ₹100 crore in its first year, contribute directly to state coffers. Additionally, the surrounding Kevadia area has witnessed a boom in infrastructure development, attracting investments and creating new avenues for employment in construction, hospitality, and tourism-related sectors.