Date: April 17, 2025
India’s Tallest Statue for NTR: Will PM Modi Approve
India’s Tallest Statue: A Monumental Tribute to a Telugu Icon
The Andhra Pradesh government, under Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu, has announced its plan to erect India’s tallest statue in Amaravati. This ambitious project aims to honor NT Rama Rao (NTR) — a legendary actor, former Chief Minister, and a symbol of Telugu pride.
The statue, once completed, is expected to exceed the height of Gujarat’s Statue of Unity (597 feet), dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The NTR statue will not only be a towering structure but will also include a library, museum, and exhibition centre showcasing NTR’s contributions to Indian cinema and politics.
Why Amaravati? Why Now?
With a strong electoral mandate, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) government can move forward with this project smoothly at the state level. Even the party’s traditional rival, the YSRCP, has consistently respected NTR’s legacy, making bipartisan support highly likely.
This statue is envisioned as more than just a monument — it’s designed to immortalize the story of a Telugu legend and project Andhra Pradesh onto the global tourism map.
The Big Question: Will the Centre Approve It of India’s Tallest Statue?
However, there’s one major roadblock — the central government’s approval. According to national regulations, any statue exceeding 100 meters requires clearance from the Union Government, especially due to considerations like aircraft routes, environmental impact, and structural safety.
In similar past instances:
- KCR’s statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in Hyderabad had to settle for a lower height due to central restrictions. A taller base added to boost its visual height.
- The proposed statue of M. Karunanidhi in Tamil Nadu has also been awaiting central approval for a long time.
Given these precedents, it remains uncertain whether the Narendra Modi-led NDA government will greenlight a statue taller than the Statue of Unity — a national pride project strongly associated with Modi himself.
What’s at Stake for Andhra Pradesh?
If approved, the NTR statue could become a tourism landmark, boost local economy, and act as a cultural beacon for Telugu people globally. On the other hand, a rejection may spark a political and emotional debate, especially among NTR admirers and the broader Telugu population.
Conclusion: Awaiting Delhi’s Nod
While Andhra Pradesh may have everything lined up at the state level, the final decision lies with New Delhi. Whether Prime Minister Modi allows a taller statue than the one he personally inaugurated in Gujarat remains to seen.
One thing is certain — the spotlight is now on the centre, and every Telugu heart is watching closely.