42-Feet Bronze Statue of Nilkanth Varni Installed in Johannesburg - Sets New Record

Johannesburg, January 7, 2026: The BAPS Hindu Mandir complex in Johannesburg, South Africa, has marked a historic milestone with the consecration of a magnificent 42-feet tall bronze statue of Nilkanth Varni (the teenage form of Bhagwan Swaminarayan). This monument is now the tallest bronze statue in South Africa and ranks as the joint fourth-highest statue on the African continent.

A Marvel of Engineering Weighing approximately 20 tonnes and cast primarily in copper and brass, the statue is uniquely poised in the 'Vrikshasana' (Tree Pose)—a yogic posture of balancing on a single leg. Local engineering experts have described the balance of such a massive structure on one leg as an extraordinary feat. The posture symbolizes self-discipline, youthful idealism, and unwavering focus.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance The statue commemorates the teenage pilgrimage of Nilkanth Varni, who at age 11 embarked on a 7-year, 12,000-kilometer journey across the Indian subcontinent with minimal possessions.

• The Ceremony: The official unveiling was led by His Holiness Doctor Swami, a senior monk of the BAPS Swaminarayan order.

• Key Guests: The event was attended by South Africa's Deputy Minister of Finance, Ashor Sarupen, and several other dignitaries. A highlights of the evening was a performance by a 60-man Indo-African orchestra, blending cultures through music.

Boost to Local Tourism The BAPS temple administration stated that this monument is more than a religious installation; it represents values of perseverance and service to society. With its lush gardens and the adjacent 'Shayona' vegetarian restaurant, the complex is expected to become a major landmark on the tourism route of the greater Johannesburg region.