On August 4, 2025, a monumental event unfolded at the Hindu Heritage Centre in Mississauga, Ontario, as the tallest idol of Lord Shri Ram in North America—a majestic 51-foot statue—was unveiled amidst chants of “Jai Shri Ram” and a shower of flower petals. This historic moment, attended by over 10,000 devotees, Canadian dignitaries, and members of the Indian diaspora, marked a profound celebration of faith, cultural heritage, and unity for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and the global Sanatani community. For NRIs, this awe-inspiring statue stands as a beacon of spiritual connection, bridging their lives abroad with the timeless values of Sanatan Dharma.
The Divine Vision: A Story of Devotion and Unity
The journey to erect this towering tribute to Lord Ram, the protector of dharma, began nearly four years ago, inspired by the consecration of the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya in January 2024. Acharya Surinder Sharma Shastri, the founder and head priest of the Hindu Heritage Centre, envisioned a “spiritual gift to the community” that would embody righteousness and inspire generations. With the generous support of Indo-Canadian business leader Laj Prasher, this dream became a reality.
Crafted in Delhi using fibreglass and a robust steel superstructure, the statue was designed to withstand winds of up to 200 km/h and endure for over a century. Skilled Canadian craftsmen assembled the idol on-site, blending traditional Indian artistry with modern engineering. The statue, standing 51 feet tall (excluding its 7-foot pedestal and a planned chhatri or umbrella), is strategically positioned under the flight path of Toronto Pearson International Airport, making it one of the first sights to greet travelers arriving in the city—a powerful symbol of Sanatan Dharma’s global presence.
The unveiling ceremony was a vibrant tapestry of devotion, with Vedic hymns, bhajans, cultural performances, and prasad distribution creating an atmosphere of divine joy. Mississauga Mayor Carolyn Parrish described the event as “a truly spectacular landmark for Mississauga’s Hindu community,” noting the warm welcome extended to all visitors. The event also saw the closure of Mississauga Road for a grand parade, reflecting the community’s pride and unity.
The Significance of the Shri Ram Statue for NRIs
For NRIs, the unveiling of this statue is more than a religious milestone; it is a testament to their resilience, faith, and cultural pride in a foreign land. Social media posts captured the emotional resonance of the moment, with one user writing, “From Ayodhya to Ontario, the name of Shri Ram echoes louder than borders. This is a statement of faith and identity standing tall across the world.” Another remarked, “In a land where Hindus have faced challenges, this murti is a symbol of resilience, peace, and presence. Sanatan stands tall.”
The statue’s inauguration, attended by prominent Canadian leaders such as Minister of Women and Gender Equality Rechie Valdez, President of the Treasury Board Shafqat Ali, Minister of International Trade Maninder Sidhu, and interim Conservative Party leader Andrew Scheer, underscored Canada’s commitment to cultural harmony. Sidhu’s spirited “Jai Shri Ram” chant energized the crowd, while Kushagr Sharma, the principal organizer, called the event “a proud moment for all Canadians who value cultural harmony and spiritual heritage.”
For NRIs, this statue serves as a spiritual anchor, reminding them of Lord Ram’s teachings of righteousness, compassion, and duty. It offers a sacred space to connect with their heritage, especially for those far from India, fostering a sense of belonging and devotion.
Mantras to Chant at the Shri Ram Statue
Shri Ram Tarak Mantra
॥ ॐ श्री रामाय नमः ॥
(Om Shri Ramaya Namah)
- This simple yet potent mantra invokes Lord Ram’s divine protection and guidance.
- How to Chant: Recite 108 times with a tulsi mala, facing the statue or east, to seek strength and clarity.
- Keyword Focus: “Ram Tarak Mantra”, “Shri Ram Devotion for NRIs”
Ram Gayatri Mantra
॥ ॐ दाशरथये विद्महे सीतावल्लभाय धीमहि तन्नो रामः प्रचोदयात् ॥
(Om Dasharathaye Vidmahe Sitavallabhaya Dheemahi Tanno Ramah Prachodayat)
- This Vedic mantra enhances wisdom, family harmony, and spiritual upliftment, ideal for NRIs seeking balance in their global lives.
- How to Chant: Chant 21 or 108 times during morning prayers or at the statue’s base.
Ram Raksha Stotra
A sacred hymn praising Lord Ram’s divine qualities, offering protection and blessings.
Key Lines:
“रामं लक्ष्मणपूर्वजं रघुवरं सीतापतिं सुंदरम्।
काकुत्स्थं करुणार्णवं गुणनिधिं विप्रप्रियं धार्मिकम्।।”
(Translation: I salute Ram, the elder of Lakshman, the best of Raghus, Sita’s lord, the ocean of compassion, and the treasure of virtues.)
- How to Chant: Recite or play the stotra during puja or visits to the statue for divine protection.
- Tip: Stream the Ram Raksha Stotra online to create a devotional ambiance at home.
Jai Shri Ram Mantra
॥ जय श्री राम ॥
(Jai Shri Ram)
- This powerful chant, echoed during the unveiling, invokes Lord Ram’s victory and righteousness.
- How to Chant: Chant joyfully with family or community to celebrate unity and faith.
How NRIs Can Celebrate at the Shri Ram Statue
Whether visiting the Hindu Heritage Centre or honoring Lord Ram from afar, NRIs can connect with this sacred milestone through these steps:
- Visit the Hindu Heritage Centre – Located at 6300 Mississauga Rd, Mississauga, Ontario, the statue is a must-visit for NRIs in Canada. Offer flowers, light a lamp, and chant mantras at the statue’s base.
- Perform a Home Puja – Set up a small altar with a Shri Ram idol or picture, adorned with flowers and a diya. Offer fruits, sweets, or prasad like kheer, and recite the above mantras.
- Join Community Events – Participate in festivals, bhajans, or cultural programs at the Hindu Heritage Centre or nearby temples like the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Toronto or the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton.
- Share the Joy – Spread the message of this historic unveiling on social media with hashtags like #JaiShriRam and #SanatanDharma, inspiring other NRIs to celebrate their heritage.
Final Blessing
The unveiling of North America’s tallest Shri Ram statue in Mississauga is a historic triumph for NRIs, symbolizing the enduring power of Sanatan Dharma and the Indian diaspora’s cultural pride. As Lord Ram’s 51-foot murti stands tall, visible even from the skies, may it inspire NRIs worldwide to embrace righteousness, unity, and devotion. Let this sacred landmark be a reminder of the timeless values of the Ramayana, guiding your journey with faith and prosperity.
Stay tuned to NRIGlobe.com for more spiritual guides, festival rituals, and stories celebrating NRI pride and Hindu heritage.
Have you visited the Shri Ram statue or plan to celebrate its unveiling? Share your devotion in the comments!
