Welcome Lykkers! The Gautama Buddha Monolithic Statue, situated in the serene waters of Hussain Sagar Lake in Hyderabad, India, is one of the city's most iconic landmarks.

Towering at an impressive height of 18 meters (58 feet) and weighing 450 tons, it is the largest single-stone Buddha statue in the world. This awe-inspiring monument represents peace, tranquility, and the enduring legacy of Buddha's teachings.

Historical Background

The idea of the statue was conceived in the early 1980s by N.T. Rama Rao, the then Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, as a symbol of universal harmony. The statue was sculpted from a single block of white granite sourced from the rocky terrain near Raigiri village, about 60 kilometers from Hyderabad. A team of over 200 artisans, led by renowned sculptor Ganapati Sthapati, worked meticulously for two years to carve this masterpiece.

Transportation and Installation

Transporting the colossal statue from Raigiri to Hussain Sagar Lake was a feat of engineering. The statue was transported via a custom-built barge to the lake’s central island, known as Rock of Gibraltar. However, the installation process was fraught with challenges. In 1990, during the statue's first attempt to be erected, it tragically tipped over and sank into the lake, resulting in the loss of ten worker's lives.

Undeterred, the government launched a recovery operation, and the statue was successfully retrieved and installed in 1992. It now stands proudly on a pedestal, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens.

Architectural Features

The Buddha statue portrays the Enlightened One in a meditative posture, embodying calmness and serenity. Its detailed craftsmanship highlights the folds of Buddha’s robe and the serene expression on his face, showcasing the skill of traditional Indian artisans.

Accessibility

The statue can be accessed via boat rides operated from Lumbini Park, located on the lakeside. The journey offers breathtaking views of the lake and the statue, especially during sunset, when the area is bathed in golden light. At night, the statue is illuminated, adding a mystical charm to the tranquil waters.

The Buddha Statue of Hyderabad is open to visitors every day from 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM. The ticket prices are very affordable, with tickets costing INR 55 and children's tickets priced at INR 35.

Cultural and Tourism Significance

The Buddha statue is not just a tourist attraction but also a symbol of Hyderabad's cultural heritage. It attracts visitors from around the world, including pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and art lovers. The monument is also a focal point during events like Buddha Purnima, celebrated with great fervor.

The Gautama Buddha Monolithic Statue stands as a testament to Hyderabad's commitment to preserving its cultural and spiritual identity. Rising majestically in the heart of Hussain Sagar Lake, it continues to inspire awe and reverence, reminding visitors of the timeless teachings of Gautama Buddha.