Daijiworld Media Network-Udupi(NP)

Udupi, May 5: Muniyal Uday Kumar Shetty, Congress leader of Karkala said  ”We don’t want Krishna Art Gallery to continue work on the Parashurama Theme Park. According to mythology and all the temple thinkers, people say that the axe should be in the direction of the west but it is pointing towards the east. I don’t know whether this is showing Karkala or Sunil's house" while discussing the issue at the district Press Club, Udupi.

In a recent development, controversy has arisen over the Parashurama Theme Park in Karkala as questions have come up about the authenticity of its centerpiece statue. The statue, purportedly depicting the Parashurama, has been labeled as fake by locals, sparking outrage amid demands for accountability. Concerned citizens have lamented the lack of response from both the artist and local authorities, including MLA, MLC, and the Deputy  Commissioner

Uday Shetty further said, “Laxmi Hebbalkar, while taking charge of the issue, has reportedly submitted a report to the chief minister and deputy chief minister calling for swift action. However, before any conclusive decision could be made, the remaining portion of the statue has been dismantled.

Residents argue that the statue, funded by public money, symbolises their cultural heritage and spiritual beliefs. They emphasise the need for a new statue crafted with proper consultation from temple leaders and adherence to religious traditions.

Regarding the budget allocation, Uday Kumar shetty said that “With the original statue costing Rs 2.4 crore, questions loom over the additional expenses required for its replacement."

Accusations of mismanagement and overspending have been directed at Krishna Art Gallery, the overseeing entity responsible for the project. In response to mounting pressure, the Congress government is expected to address the issue with demands for transparency and accountability echoing throughout the community.

He also said that “We have the Kempegowda statue, Shivaji statue and Chennamma statue which look beautiful and show the tradition of Karnataka. As the controversy rages on, the fate of the Parashurama Theme Park and its iconic statue hangs in the balance with residents in their demand for justice and authenticity in their cultural representation.”