Historic statue consecration planned at North Riding Mandir
The BAPS Hindu Mandir in North Riding will consecrate a 42-foot bronze statue of Nilkanth Varni on January 4, marking a significant cultural milestone.
The BAPS Hindu Mandir and Cultural Complex will mark a significant cultural and civic milestone on January 4, 2026, with the consecration of a 42-foot bronze statue of Nilkanth Varni.
Positioned at the entrance of the Mandir complex, the sacred image is the tallest bronze statue in South Africa. It depicts Nilkanth Varni in Vrikshasana, a yogic posture where the figure balances on one leg, symbolising discipline, focus and inner strength.
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Cast mainly from copper and brass, the statue weighs about 20 tonnes. Its unique single-leg stance reflects steadiness and mental clarity, values that the Mandir said remain relevant in today’s fast-paced and often distracting world.
The statue represents the teenage years of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, also known as Nilkanth Varni, who left home at the age of 11 and undertook a seven-year journey across the Indian subcontinent. During this time, he travelled more than 12 000km, living simply while dedicating himself to learning, meditation and service to others.
The image specifically commemorates Varni’s extended period of yoga and meditation at Muktinath in the Himalayas, where he is believed to have stood on one leg for four months in deep contemplation, praying for peace and well-being for humanity.
The consecration ceremony will be led by Swayamprakash Swami, also known as Doctor Swami, one of the most senior monks in the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha.
BAPS media spokesperson Hemang Desai said the statue and its surroundings were designed to serve both spiritual and public purposes.
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“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,” said Desai.
“With the Shayona vegetarian restaurant located adjacent, the Mandir complex increasingly serves as a welcoming public space for families, visitors and the wider community. It is also expected to add to the tourist route within the greater Johannesburg region.”
The BAPS Hindu Mandir and Cultural Complex continues to support social upliftment through initiatives such as food relief, environmental projects, community gardens and tree-planting programmes across South Africa.
The consecration ceremony will begin at 10:00, followed by an evening celebration assembly at 18:00, at the Mandir in North Riding, Randburg.
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