Jatayu Nature Park in Kerala, India, holds the world’s largest bird sculpture, occupying about 15,000 sq feet and standing at the height of about 1200 feet above sea level. It is five times the size of the Pyramid of Giza.

Opened in 2018 as a tourist destination, the 70-foot tall giant concrete figure pays tribute to the famed divine bird, Jatayu, from the Hindu epic Ramayan. The structure also serves as the roof of the building at the Center.

It was built over a decade ago by filmmaker and sculptor Rajiv Anchal, who wanted to make the mythology come alive.

According to the legend, this is the jungle hilltop where Jatayu once fell and injured his left wing at the location in an attempt to save Sita from the clutches of evil kidnapper Ravana.

The stone-cut eagle now serves as a tribute to nature’s splendor and a symbol for the protection of womankind. Visitors must use a passenger ropeway to reach the top.

View more of the sculpture in the videos and images below.

Who is Jatayu? 

Jatayu was a divine bird in the Hindu epic Ramayana. He was the younger son of Aruna, the charioteer of the sun god Surya, and Shyeni. Jatayu was known for his bravery and strength and was a loyal friend of Rama and Lakshmana.

In the Ramayana, Jatayu tried to stop Ravana from abducting Sita. He fought bravely against Ravana but was eventually defeated and had his wings clipped. Jatayu died shortly afterward but was honored for his bravery and sacrifice.

Here are some additional details about Jatayu:

• People considered him a demigod despite him being a vulture.
• He was a close friend of Rama’s father, King Dasharatha.
• He was also the father of Sampati, another divine bird.
• Many parts of India celebrate Jatayu’s sacrifice, considering him a symbol of courage and selflessness.

More about Jatayu Earth Center:

• Jatayu Museum: This museum tells the story of Jatayu and the Ramayana.
• Adventure Park: This park offers a variety of activities, such as rappelling, rock climbing, and ziplining.
• Siddha Healing Center: This center offers traditional Indian healing practices, such as yoga, meditation, and massage.
• Nature Trail: This trail takes you through the surrounding forest.
• Bird Watching: The Jatayu Earth Center is great for bird watching.

Final chiseling at the hands of Jatayu. The sculpture is now the World's largest Bird Sculpture.

Rajiv Anchal @rajivanchal at work! pic.twitter.com/t0hIMeD13q

— Jatayu Earth's Center (@jatayutourism) September 7, 2018