The idol of 5-year-old Ramlala, to be consecrated in the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple, is extraordinary. The Bal Ramlala statue will depict the physique described in Ramcharitmanas and Valmiki Ramayana—eyes like blue lotus, a face resembling the moon, long hands reaching the knees, a carefree smile on the lips, and a divine ease mixed with seriousness. The goal is to create a living statue that not only immediately pleases the mind but also leaves the eyes longing for more after prolonged admiration.
To achieve this, three selected artists have crafted three distinct sculptures for the unique 51-inch statue. Two are made of black stone from Karnataka, while one is carved from white marble. Prior to sculpting the idol, experts meticulously examined these stones.
The idol selection for the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya is subjected to rigorous standards to ensure longevity. With the aim of avoiding any renovation for a millennium, the chosen idol must align with the child form of Shri Ram as described in Ramcharitmanas and Valmiki Ramayana. Furthermore, testing involves assessing whether worship materials like turmeric, sandalwood, incense, and the smoke from incense sticks leave any stains or effects on the idol.
Sunlight plays a crucial role in the evaluation process as experts examine how each idol appears when exposed to sunlight on the auspicious day of Ram Navami. Determining the maximum age among the finished idols is another critical criterion. These stringent standards and considerations are being thoroughly deliberated before the official announcement of the selected idol.
Before the official announcement of the idol for the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple, experts are meticulously investigating the various idols. Among the options, only one of the two distinct child-like idols crafted from Shyam Shila is likely to be chosen. The chances of selecting a statue made of white marble are minimal, as the logic behind the decision is rooted in the dark complexion of Ram Lala, making an idol made of Shyam Shila the most suitable choice.