The Lucknow division of Northern Railway is set to unveil a remarkable 15-ft tall corten steel sculpture of a squirrel at the Ayodhya Dham junction. The sculpture holds symbolic significance from Valmiki's Ramayana, where a squirrel played a humble yet essential role in building the Ram Setu.
According to the epic's Yuddh Kand, when the army of powerful 'vanars' (monkeys) was engaged in constructing the bridge to Lanka by placing massive boulders and logs into the ocean, a squirrel contributed by carrying tiny pebbles and dropping them into the water. Despite its small size, the squirrel's efforts did not go unnoticed by Lord Ram, who recognized its commitment and devotion.
In appreciation, Lord Ram picked up the squirrel, thanked it for its contribution, and affectionately stroked its back. This act left an eternal impression of the deity's fingers, symbolizing the squirrel's dedication and earning it stripes.
The decision to feature a squirrel in the sculpture at Ayodhya Dham junction is a metaphorical nod to the continuous efforts of Indian Railways in contributing to nation-building and serving the pilgrims and passengers of Ayodhya. The corten steel-based sculpture, with its rusty orange appearance, adds an ancient and monolithic feel that evolves with weather changes over time. The abstract geometric design represents a bridge between something old and a contemporary artistic style. Rekha Sharma, the senior divisional railway manager of Lucknow division, emphasized the railway's commitment and devotion through the chosen symbol of a squirrel.
(With Agency Inputs)
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