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- Published: March 8, 2025 16:18
Sydney, Australia: In a momentous celebration of spirituality and cultural heritage, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha has unveiled Australia’s tallest metal statue — a 49-foot-tall monument of Lord Neelkanth Varni — at its upcoming spiritual complex in Sydney. This iconic statue stands as a symbol of peace, resilience, and inner strength, inspiring visitors to embrace these timeless values.
The statue was unveiled by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of BAPS, in a sacred ceremony filled with devotion and tradition. The grand event was graced by the Hon’ble Chris Bowen, Australia’s Minister for Climate Change and Energy, who attended as the chief guest.
During his address, Minister Bowen commended BAPS for its dedication to promoting unity, selfless service, and cultural harmony. Thousands of devotees and well-wishers from across Australia gathered to witness this historic occasion, underscoring the deep spiritual connection the BAPS community continues to foster worldwide.
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The unveiling of the Neelkanth Varni statue marks a significant milestone in the development of BAPS’ new spiritual and cultural complex, set to become Australia’s largest spiritual precinct, spanning 25 acres. The site will feature a grand stone-carved temple, serene gardens, and dedicated cultural spaces designed to encourage learning, reflection, and community engagement.
The Australian media has also recognized the significance of this project. News 9 described the spiritual complex as a ‘new landmark set to be a wonder of Western Sydney’ and highlighted the Neelkanth Varni statue as a ‘monument of peace, discipline, and resilience’ that will inspire people of all backgrounds. The report further acknowledged the project’s scale, likening its size to 14 football fields, and praised BAPS for its contribution to enriching Australia’s multicultural landscape. Additionally, News 9 highlighted that the complex, visible from the sky, will become a prominent landmark for visitors arriving from the airport, offering a memorable first impression of Sydney’s cultural richness.
His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj’s vision for this landmark reflects BAPS’ core values of faith, service, and spiritual upliftment. The statue of Neelkanth Varni, depicted in deep meditation, symbolizes the power of unwavering focus, inner peace, and self-discipline — values that resonate deeply in today’s fast-paced world.
The new spiritual complex is expected to serve as a place of worship, cultural learning, and social harmony for people of all backgrounds. With its grandeur and deep spiritual significance, it is poised to become a landmark of Western Sydney and a symbol of Australia’s rich multicultural identity.
About BAPS:
BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha is a global Hindu organization dedicated to spiritual living, social service, and cultural preservation. Through its volunteer-driven initiatives, BAPS continues to enrich lives and nurture stronger communities worldwide.