Statues Seek Respect as Crores Risk Being Wasted

Jajpur, 10th Oct 2025:  In the heritage-rich town of Jajpur, statues were meant to be symbols of cultural and tourism development. However, many of these sculptures still await proper recognition and respect, lying neglected and forgotten. Some have become hangout spots for alcoholics, while others are overrun by weeds and vegetation. Costly statues that were meant to showcase progress now lie abandoned, their value lost in neglect, with crores of rupees at risk of being wasted.

Maa Biraja’s Statue — Still Not Installed

Jajpur is known as the land of Maa Biraja, the presiding deity of the district. As part of beautification of the Biraja temple, a tall metal statue of the goddess was specially crafted and purchased at a high cost from outside the state, to visually depict her rising from a yajna kunda (sacred fire altar). This was intended to promote the deity’s legacy and enhance tourism.

The statue was supposed to be installed on the southern side of the temple. However, for several months now, it has been lying abandoned in front of Mission Shakti Café. Despite temple authorities informing the district administration about the delay and urging quick installation, no action has been taken so far.

Raja Yayati Keshari’s Statue — Neglected and Uncared For

Likewise, the bronze statue of Raja Yayati Keshari, the legendary founder of Jajpur, is also lying neglected and dirty. It is located near Gokhana Square by the Shadhei Pokhari (pond) on the entrance road to Jajpur. The statue portrays the king arriving on horseback with Brahmins and his daughter Kanyakubja. However, it now lies amidst an unclean and ill-maintained environment.

A proposed Yayati Park in the area remains in limbo.

To depict the historical moment of Raja Yayati performing the Dasashwamedha Yajna with Brahmins, the Tourism Department had sanctioned ₹1.86 crore. Yet, due to incomplete work and mismanagement, public dissatisfaction is growing.

Cultural Heritage Left in Limbo

At the Dasashwamedha Ghat, rare bronze statues of Raja Yayati on horseback with a sword also remain uninstalled, lying scattered without any timeline for placement. Authorities seem to have no answer about when or if they will be installed.

There is now a rising demand from locals and devotees that both the statues of Maa Biraja and Raja Yayati Keshari be immediately installed and given the respect and significance they deserve.