Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday unveiled a 112-foot tall bust of Adiyogi Shiva at the Isha Foundation at the foothills of Velliangiri mountains here.
The bust, made of steel, weighs 500 tonnes and it took 2.5 years to design it and in eight months to build it.
This is the tallest bust in the planet, recognising the first yogi's unparalleled contribution to humanity. The iconic bust symbolises liberation, representing the 112 ways in which one can attain to one's ultimate through the science of yoga.
As a tribute to Adiyogi, the Prime Minister also lighted the sacred fire to commence the Maha Yoga Yagna across the world.
The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India has included the consecration of this glorious face in its official 'Incredible India' campaign as a destination.
The unveiling coincides with the Mahashivaratri festival being celebrated today in India.
The unveiling of statue has also attracted controversy as several environmentalist and political parties have urged the prime minister to not to take part in the ceremony as it is being said that the construction of the Shiva murti is in violation of environment laws.
Former BCCI chairman Anurag Thakur, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan, Tamil Nadu Chief Minsiter E. Palaniswami along with Governor Ch Vidhyasagar Rao were also present here to witness the unveiling ceremony of the Shiva statue.
National Award winning singer Kailash Kher performed at the unveiling ceremony.