Chennai: The Chennai-based Vummidi Bangaru Jewellers (VBJ) has crafted the epic Sri Ramcharit Manas in gold.
The majestic poem 'Sriramcharitmanas’, composed by the revered sage Goswami Tulsidas is rendered in resplendent gold plates, stands as a testament to devotion and craftsmanship.
Sriramcharitmanas is a masterpiece of vernacular literature. Goswami Tulsidas, a revered saint and poet of medieval India, stands as an iconic figure in Hindu spiritual literature, a VBJ release said here on Wednesday.
The Golden epic, displayed at VBJ Anna Salai Branch in the city, weighs up to 147 kg, overall, with 522 gold plated pages on it.
All pages of the Sriramcharitmanas narrate the timeless chronicles of Lord Rama, woven with poetic eloquence and spiritual depth. Beyond a mere book, it is a symbol of reverence, encapsulating the essence of devotion.
Each page, meticulously crafted with a thickness of 1 mm, symbolizes the intricate attention to detail that defines the craftsmanship.
The journey of creating this opulent masterpiece involved a myriad of design processes, right from precise CorelDraw 2D drawings like framing to sampling the pages.
Etching is a method of engraving or inscribing a design onto a surface by using acid or a corrosive substance to eat away the unwanted parts of the material, the release said.
The text of the poem, with its unique characters required a set of skilled artisans to ensure that each word is clearly and accurately etched onto the surface of the gold sheet.
Additionally, etching the poem on both sides of the sheet adds an extra layer of challenge to the process, as it demands perfect alignment and coordination to ensure that the text remains coherent and legible from every angle.
The epic involves utilizing a cutting-edge printing technology known as UV (Ultraviolet) printing to reproduce the imagery of this sacred scene onto the surface of the gold metal sheet. UV printing is employed to add intricate details and vibrant colors to the depiction on the Front page which is Ramapattabhishekam and the picture of Lord Hanuman right before the Sundara Kaanda Chapter.
A couple of pages like the RamCharan with SitaCharan and the Ayodhya Temple involves a delicate balance of two-tone metals, seamlessly blending gold and silver hues, speaks to the meticulous artistry and technical expertise involved in harmonizing these contrasting elements.
The gold and silver tones must complement each other flawlessly, creating a visual symphony that enhances the overall elegance and sophistication.
Even the stand to place the book in the Ayodhya Ram temple has also been designed by VBJ with technicality and practicality to hold a wholesome weight of 147kgs. All these processes took around eight months to craft an epic and deliver.
As a treasure trove of culture and heritage, this gilded tome transcends mere literature to become a symbol of devotion, embodying the eternal spirit of Lord Rama for generations to come.
As the golden pages illuminate the sacred verses, it invites seekers of truth to immerse themselves in the profound teachings and timeless truths depicted within. This magnificent tome not only serves as a beacon of spiritual enlightenment but also stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Tulsi Das's poetic brilliance.
Sriramcharitmanas is divided into Six 'Kaandas' or chapters, each encapsulating a distinct phase of Lord Rama's divine journey. They are the Bala Kanda, Ayodhya Kanda, Aranya Kanda, Kishkindha Kanda, Sundara Kanda and the Uttara Kanda. Each Kaanda within, serves as a profound reservoir of moral teachings, spiritual insights, and timeless wisdom, guiding readers on a transformative journey towards self-realization and divine grace.
This remarkable creation stands as a testament to VBJ's unwavering dedication to preserving cultural heritage, spiritual wisdom, and a legacy. It signifies more than just a remarkable feat of craftsmanship; it represents a deep-rooted commitment to preserving cultural heritage, promoting artistic excellence, and honoring spiritual traditions.
This also encapsulates VBJ’s ethos as custodians of heritage, visionaries of artistry, and champions of luxury, setting a standard of excellence that resonates far beyond the realms of jewellery and craftsmanship.
