The artist dreams of setting up a Museum of Live Statues in Hyderabad in PPP Mode.
Hyderabad, June 25, 2025 — Dr. A. Rajesh, a renowned live statue artist from Hyderabad, has been honored with a rare distinction for his remarkable creation: a live statue of Shri Shirdi Sai Baba, which has been accepted by the Shree Sai Baba Sansthan Trust and is now installed in the main temple complex in Shirdi. This makes Dr. Rajesh the only artist in the country to receive such esteemed recognition.
Dr. Rajesh’s live statue of Sai Baba is the first ever to be accepted and installed by the Shree Sai Baba Sansthan Trust, making this an exclusive and monumental event in both the art and spiritual realms.
Live statues, especially of revered figures like Sai Baba, are gaining traction as a new form of cultural tourism, bringing in visitors and devotees to see these interactive sculptures that blend spirituality and art said Rajesh while interacting with the media in the city.
A graduate of Jawaharlal Nehru Architecture and Fine Arts University (JNFAU), Dr. Rajesh has brought the revered figure of Shirdi Sai Baba to life through his live statue, capturing the attention of the temple authorities. His creation was not only embraced but also installed within the temple’s sacred premises, alongside six additional live statues of Sai Baba, each made and donated by devotees.
In a statement, Dr. Rajesh expressed his gratitude, saying, “It is a rare honour, and a deeply emotional experience. For me, these live statues are more than just art — they bring memories and loved ones back to life.”
Live Statue artists are very few in the country, a handful of them. On average, all these artists spread across India produce about 20 live statues a year. But, this trend is catching up says Dr Rajesh.
It is Rajesh’s dream to set up a “Museum of Live Statues”, something similar to Madame Tussauds in London. He wants to set up a PPP model where he needs two acres of land and corporate support to create 100 live life-size statues of well-known artists in India, as well as Freedom Fighters. He is looking at the investment or support to the extent of Rs 20 to 30 crores for the museum. It is his dream. This could become a major tourism attraction, he said. We can bring to life the heroes of the past
He is also looking for some challenging work. He feels that artists are not getting the support from the government that they deserve.
Dr. Rajesh’s portfolio spans over 50 live statues, along with more than 100 other works of art, including murals, paintings, and sculptures. He has dedicated his career to creating life-like statues that celebrate the lives of revered figures and the memories of lost loved ones. His technique, blending fibreglass and resin, results in lightweight yet durable statues that evoke a profound sense of realism.
“These live statues are not just representations; they are a way to bring the past into the present, allowing us to interact with the memories of those who have passed,” he shared. His creations include life-sized statues of deceased people, helping families preserve their cherished memories. Notably, one of his most heartfelt works is a live statue of his late mother, which he created as a personal tribute.
The concept of live statues is rapidly gaining popularity in India, resonating deeply with the country’s rich tradition of idol worship and reverence for historical and spiritual figures. Through his work, Dr. Rajesh brings to life the revered saints and national icons like Sai Baba and Mahatma Gandhi, offering a fresh and interactive experience for today’s audience. This growing trend highlights India’s longstanding craftsmanship and the innovative ways in which artists like Dr. Rajesh are blending tradition with modern-day artistry.
Over his 16-year career, Dr. Rajesh has earned recognition from prestigious institutions such as Hetero Drugs, NFCL, the Tourism Department, Salarjung Museum, HMDA, and GHMC. His works continue to capture the imagination of those who value the fusion of art, history, and memory.
Dr. Rajesh is not just an artist, but a pioneer who has created a new genre of art that links India’s rich idol-worship tradition with modern interactive art forms.
With over 50 live statues to his credit, Dr. Rajesh has single-handedly revolutionized the live statue genre, making it a mainstream trend that celebrates Indian culture and personal stories.