Johannesburg to unveil South Africa's tallest bronze statue of Nilkanth Varni
The BAPS Hindu Mandir and Cultural Complex in North Riding, Johannesburg, will mark a major cultural and civic milestone on Sunday with the consecration of a 42-foot bronze image of Nilkanth Varni, a late eighteenth century Yogi and spiritual luminary
Image: Supplied
Johannesburg is poised to witness a significant cultural and civic landmark this Sunday with the consecration of a magnificent 42-foot bronze image of Nilkanth Varni, an iconic figure from the late eighteenth century.
This sacred image, located at the entrance of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Hindu Mandir and Cultural Complex in North Riding, will stand as the tallest bronze statue in South Africa and a striking public monument across the continent.
The inauguration ceremony is a momentous occasion for the BAPS community, following the historic opening of the largest Hindu temple and cultural complex in the southern hemisphere in February of last year.
Renowned worldwide for its socio-spiritual contributions, BAPS has continued to foster a deeper connection to cultural heritage and community service.
The Nilkanth Varni murti (sacred image) represents values of self-discipline, perseverance, clarity of purpose, and service to society.
Cast primarily in copper and brass and weighing approximately 20 tonnes, the sacred image is uniquely poised on a single leg, an extraordinary feat of engineering and symbolism.
The posture reflects yogic discipline and mental focus, expressing steadiness amid complexity and pressure. Qualities increasingly vital for individuals and communities navigating modern life.
The consecration ceremony will be led by His Holiness Swayamprakash Swami, widely known as Doctor Swami, one of the most senior monks in the BAPS Swaminarayan order.
Shri Nilkanth Varni represents the teenage pilgrimage of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, who at the age of 11 embarked on a seven-year journey covering over 12,000 kilometres across the Indian subcontinent. Living with minimal possessions, he dedicated himself to learning, dialogue, physical discipline, and service to others.
This period of his life is especially resonant for young people. It highlights the possibility of purpose-driven living rooted in restraint, inquiry, and compassion rather than instant gratification.
The sacred image specifically commemorates Nilkanth’s extended practice of yoga and meditation at Muktinath in the Himalayas, where he stood on one leg in deep contemplation for a period of four months, seeking peace and wellbeing for all humanity.
Hemang Desai, BAPS spokesperson, said: “Set amid flowing fountains, landscaped gardens, and sculptural elements inspired by traditional art and music, the Nilkanth courtyard has been designed as a space for calm reflection and renewal. With the BAPS vegetarian restaurant, Shayona located adjacent, the Mandir complex increasingly serves as a welcoming public space for families, visitors, and the wider community. It is also sure to add to the tourist route within the greater Johannesburg region.”
The consecration ceremony will take place on Sunday at 10am followed by a celebration at 6pm.