In a monumental expression of devotion and artistic mastery, Shri Prakash Anant Valame, a dedicated devotee from Talegaon Dabhade, Maval Taluka, Pune District, Maharashtra, installed a majestic statue of Shri Swami Samarth Maharaj on the auspicious occasion of Pran Pratishtha.
This divine statue, standing 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing an astonishing 1131 kilograms, was masterfully sculpted by Mrs. Supriya Shekhar Shinde, marking a historic milestone in the field of Indian sculpture. Crafted using clay, oil furnish, and pure copper, the statue was produced through the traditional lost wax casting technique, resulting in a flawless, seamless single-piece idol—a feat rarely accomplished at this scale.
Mrs. Shinde’s unparalleled craftsmanship and dedication have earned her the prestigious recognition as the first woman sculptor to achieve such a distinguished honor. This record-setting creation was officially confirmed by World Records India on April 21, 2024.
The installation not only represents the spiritual reverence for Shri Swami Samarth Maharaj, a revered saint known for his miracles and teachings, but also showcases the revival and elevation of traditional Indian sculpting techniques in the modern era.
This landmark achievement serves as an inspiration for women artists across the nation, proving that with skill, devotion, and perseverance, even the grandest artistic visions can be realized.
