The new “Jatayu Earth Centre” gives you another reason to visit India (like you needed one). This rock-themed park is located at Chatataya-Mangalam in Kollam district, Kerala. This is where the mythical Eagle: Jatayu is said to have fallen from the sky while trying to rescue Sita, the wife of Lord Rama when she was abducted by the demon king Ravana. Jatayu battled Ravana, who cut off his left wing and escaped with Sita. In keeping with the legend, this concrete version of Jatayu only has one wing. The epic of Ramayana has been brought back to life in the best way possible with this sculpture.
Currently the biggest bird sculpture in the world
When we say BIG, we mean: 200 feet long, 150 feet wide and 70 feet high—built atop the rolling hills of Chadayamangalam! Yes, it doubles as a roof for the Earth Center’s building so you can walk on top of the figure and even climb onto his talons and head! Yep.
This massive sculpture was a joint venture between the country’s tourism department and Rajiv Anchal (a film director and sculptor). This massive sculpture is situated in the Kollam district of Kerala, which is 50 kilometre from Trivandrum towards North (Cochin direction). If you are travelling from Cochin to Trivandrum, this is 170 kilometres from Cochin, 114km from Alleppey and is 40km from Kollam.
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This dedication to the Hindu epic Ramayana is also a tribute to Women’s Safety and honour. But Anchal believes it’s important to not turn the monument from a cultural one into a religious one. According to him “Jatayu died protecting a woman’s honour and that is what the sculpture stands for. People of all faiths have invested in the project and people of all faiths will be coming to see it. My work is for all of them. For those looking for religion, there is the old temple just outside the compound.”
Source: Flickr
See the beautiful giant statue of Jatayu
This masterpiece creation of Mr Rajiv Anchal took 10 years of dedicated work by him and his team of experienced sculptors. This beautiful giant statue of Jatayu is built on a mighty rock named Jatayupara (para means rock in Malayalam). With its staggering set of measurements, it also features meticulous details including individually decorated and layered feathers. The mind-blowing statue of this eagle has impressive wings that splay onto the ground. Constructed out of compacted concrete (except for the talons, which are stainless steel), Jatayu is an embodiment of valour and chivalry.
In addition to being visually stunning, the sculpture is also an adventure and Nature Park. This adventure eco-park offers activities such as abseiling, zip-lining, rock climbing rappelling, paintball, and rifle shooting. Inside it lies a digital museum, a 6D theatre and one can get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding countryside via an observation deck located inside the animal’s eyes.
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Located in the heart of Kerala, it can be reached via a winding footpath or by cable car. Helicopter service can also be arranged and reservations can also be made online. Add this perfect destination to your bucket list; especially for those of you with a penchant for Indian mythology. And do let us know your experience in the comments below!
