Bringing masterpieces adorning temples and heritage sites to people’s homes

Inspired by the masterpieces that adorn temples and heritage sites, Viswamayam, a start-up, has created miniature replicas of iconic sculptures such as Gnanasaraswathi of Gangaikonda Cholapuram, the Sapthamatrikas of Thirunedunkalam, and Rishabakunjaram of Darasuram, which people can display at their homes.

A miniature replica of Gnanasaraswathi of Gangaikonda Cholapuram.
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“Even UNESCO treasures such as Gangaikonda Cholapuram often lack accessible souvenirs. We bridge this divide by meticulously crafting replicas of the masterpieces of Indian temples, bringing their sacred beauty into homes at a reasonable cost,” Lalitharam, one of the founders of Viswamayam, said.

The first step in creating the replicas is digitally designing the sculpture, followed by 3D printing. The pieces are then made using a blend of stone powder and resin. In this project, Mr. Lalitharam has collaborated with Swamimalai Saravanan, a student of fine arts and crafts.

“Swamimalai is a hub for the bronze sculpture industry, especially Chola-era bronzes. As a student who studied sculpture-making in Kumbakonam, I decided to focus on introducing great stone masterpieces to connoisseurs of fine arts and the general public alike,” Mr. Saravanan said.

What sets Viswamayam’s sculptures apart is their ability to recreate the look and feel of real stone, capturing the intricate details and textures of ancient artistry. “We do not add any paint or colour agents. The sculptures are heat- and water-resistant and will not fade,” Mr. Lalitharam said.

An engineer trained in the United States and a professional in making engineering prototypes, Mr. Lalitharam’s interest in history was nurtured by R. Kalaikovan, with whom he toured Tamil Nadu and other parts of the country to visit temples and historical sites. “This is the first time I am using my engineering knowledge for a subject close to my heart. Our mission is to celebrate and illuminate India’s heritage, offering art lovers a tangible piece of this legacy,” he said.

They began with Gnanasaraswathi, who adorns the wall of the northern entrance of the Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple. She holds a bundle of manuscripts instead of the traditional veena. A similar sculpture can be found in the Thanjavur Big Temple.

“It is an unusual depiction of Saraswathi, presented with the Dharjani mudra, a warning sign. This mudra is not part of traditional Saraswathi iconography. She holds one finger in a manner similar to how the Dwarapalakas at temple entrances are shown,” said Dr. Kalaikovan of the Dr. M. Rajamanikkanar Centre for Historical Research.

Sapthamatrikas — Brahmi, Vaishnavi, Maheswari, Indrani, Kaumari, Varahi, and Chamundi — represent strength, wisdom, and protection.