Is the Legacy of Narasimha Rao Set to be Cast in Bronze?
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Synopsis
The proposal for a statue of P.V. Narasimha Rao in New Delhi is making waves, pending final governmental approval. Will this tribute materialize? Stay tuned as we explore the complexities surrounding this significant honor.
Key Takeaways
- Proposal for statue of P.V. Narasimha Rao is awaiting approval.
- DUAC has recommended improvements to the surrounding area.
- Rao's legacy includes significant economic reforms.
- Controversial political relationships shape public memory.
- Potential third honor from the BJP-led government.
New Delhi, May 12 (NationPress) A significant proposal to erect a statue of former Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao in New Delhi is currently awaiting final approval from the Centre before it can be installed at Telangana Bhavan, according to sources.
While the bureaucratic green light is still pending, officials from Telangana Bhavan and the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) clarified that the initiative did not originate from their offices.
An official from Telangana Bhavan indicated that the state government, led by Revanth Reddy, is planning a dedicated Bhavan for Telangana on Ashoka Road, suggesting that the statue installation might be premature.
The Delhi Urban Art Commission (DUAC) granted approval to the proposal on March 27, which was forwarded by the NDMC.
As part of the approval, the DUAC recommended the repair of damaged pavements surrounding the site and the installation of proper lighting to improve visibility at night, sources disclosed.
Since its inception in 2014, Telangana has shared its Bhavan premises with Andhra Pradesh. The official emphasized that moving forward with the statue installation at this point may not be suitable.
The proposal reportedly originated from the P.V. Narasimha Rao Memorial Foundation, which sought permission in April 2024 to place a bronze statue of Rao next to that of Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu, the first Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh.
The ultimate decision regarding the statue’s location—whether inside or outside Telangana Bhavan—and the timeline will be contingent upon political approval.
If the Centre grants the necessary permissions, this would mark the third honor bestowed upon Rao by the BJP-led NDA government.
In 2015, the government approved a memorial for him at Ekta Sthal in the Rajghat Complex.
In February 2024, Rao was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honor.
Rao is not the sole Congress leader recognized by the BJP-led Centre. In January, memorials for former President Pranab Mukherjee and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh were approved at the Rashtriya Smriti complex near Rajghat.
During his tenure as Prime Minister from 1991 to 1996, Rao played a crucial role in economic liberalization and was present during the Babri Masjid demolition in 1992.
His relationship with Sonia Gandhi remained strained, and notably, after his death in 2004, his body was absent from the Congress party headquarters.
Following the Bharat Ratna announcement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Rao as a distinguished scholar and statesman.
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge the profound impact of P.V. Narasimha Rao on India's economic landscape and political history. While the proposal for his statue awaits final approval, the conversation around honoring such a pivotal figure is paramount. History reflects not only the achievements of leaders but also the complexities of their relationships and the legacies they leave behind. The decision should reflect a balanced appreciation of Rao's contributions while considering the current political climate.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the status of the statue proposal for P.V. Narasimha Rao?
The proposal is currently awaiting final approval from the Centre before installation at Telangana Bhavan.
Who initiated the statue proposal?
The proposal reportedly came from the P.V. Narasimha Rao Memorial Foundation.
What recommendations did the Delhi Urban Art Commission make?
The DUAC recommended repairing broken pavements around the site and installing appropriate lighting.
When did P.V. Narasimha Rao receive the Bharat Ratna?
He was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna in February 2024.
What was Rao's role in Indian politics?
Rao served as Prime Minister from 1991 to 1996 and was instrumental in India's economic liberalization.
