A feather that has remained missing from the crown of Kottayam would soon find its rightful place. A sculpture of the acclaimed sculptor Kanayi Kunhiraman would be erected at compound of the Kottayam Public Library within a period of eight months.
According to Mr. Kunhiraman, his work would incorporate the importance of letters, culture and the values imbibed within the family system. The sculpture said that he would project an idealism that brings the importance of the mother-tongue to the forefront through his work.
He said that his work, which would hopefully become among his best works, will definitely befit the tradition of Kottayam. The figure would be of immense proportions, with a height of nearly 20 feet.
On being probed further, Mr. Kunhiraman refused to divulge any further details regarding the project. “The beauty of an infant could only be revealed after its birth,” he quipped.
Along with the erection of the sculpture, landscaping works would also be done in the compounds. The comprehensive development of the area is intended to create a much-needed landmark at Kottayam that would ultimately become a recreational hotspot in the locality.
The foundation stone of the sculpture was laid by the Chief Minister Oommen Chandy at a function held at the Public Library.
The Kottayam Public Library is also on the threshold of other developmental activities.
Speaking to The Hindu , Library president C. Abraham Itticheria said that construction of the Heritage Museum and Archives Complex was nearing completion.
Being constructed on a total outlay of Rs. 1 crore, the museum complex will be spread over three floors spanning 4000 sq.ft. each. It is envisaged to serve as a centre for studying the heritage of Kerala with relevance to the branches of history, culture, religion, tourism, indigenous medicine, martial arts, architecture and fine arts.
The heritage museum would also be equipped with valuable records, documents, exhibits, artifacts and relics connected with different fields of study. The replicas of many rare paintings including those of Raja Ravi Varma would also be archived. Moreover, the wax statues of various Kathakali exponents would also be featured.
The initiative would fill the dearth of such museums in the Central Travancore regions, said Mr. Itticheria.
He said that the construction of the museum was being constantly overseen by the State Government. Kerala Museum Executive Director S. Raymon had visited the library and took stock of the progress on Sunday.
