In a significant milestone, Anuradha Timbers International, a leading timber company based in Hyderabad, has taken center stage in the historical narrative surrounding the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The firm has been entrusted with the craftsmanship of the grand doors for the iconic temple, and in an exclusive interview with Deccan Chronicle, company director Sarath Babu sheds light on this momentous undertaking.
Babu emphasizes the profound cultural and religious significance embedded in the design philosophy of the doors, rooted in the Nagara Shaili, a centuries-old architectural style prevalent in northern Indian temples. The designs, conceptualized long before the Supreme Court’s verdict on the temple, align seamlessly with the vision set by architect Sompura, symbolizing not only physical barriers but also a deep manifestation of cultural identity.
The journey to secure the contract began during Anuradha Timbers’ involvement in the Yadadri temple project. A model crafted for the Ram Temple during this project caught the attention of a selection committee comprising Tata Engineering Consultancy, Larsen and Toubro, and the Ayodhya Trust.
This initiated a time-sensitive endeavor, with the company racing against the clock to deliver the intricate doors within six to seven months. The first phase, a testament to the dedication and skill of the craftsmen, has been completed. Hand-carved and hand-chiseled with meticulous detail, the doors showcase the company’s unwavering commitment to quality.
Craftsmen from Tamil Nadu, led by senior sculptor Kumar Swamy Ramesh, played a pivotal role, ensuring that the Balharshah teak wood from Maharashtra, meticulously selected for the project, meets the highest standards. Babu asserts that this wood is expected to last for 1,000 years, akin to the woodwork in ancient temples that are over 3,000 years old.
While traditional craftsmanship takes center stage, modern technology has breathed life into these designs through computerized precision. This integration not only meets stringent timelines but also enhances the intricacy of the hand-chiseled work. The primary symbolic elements of the door design feature peacocks, elephants, lotus, and devata iconography.
The doors are now set to move into the next phase, involving gold gilding and installation at the temple. Babu expresses gratitude for the opportunity, considering it a privilege and a chapter in history crafted with wood, skill, and unwavering dedication.
Door Dimensions
- Sanctum sanctorum: 8 feet tall, 12 feet wide, 5 inches thick
- Other doors: 8 feet tall, 5 inches thick, varied widths
Wood Used
- Balharshah teak wood from Maharashtra
Carving Process
- Hand-chiseled by craftsmen from Tamil Nadu
Timeline for Preparing the Doors
- 6-7 months
Design Roots
- Rooted in the Nagara Shaili, a centuries-old architectural style prominent in northern Indian temples.
