A Stellar Tribute: Wax Statue of Astronaut Sunita Williams Unveiled in Asansol

In a grand ceremony, a wax statue of the renowned astronaut Sunita Williams was unveiled at the Susanta Ray Wax Museum in Asansol, West Bengal. The statue was officially inaugurated on Sunday by West Burdwan District Magistrate S Pannabalam and the state’s Law and Labour Minister Malay Ghatak, marking a momentous occasion for the city and its people.

A Masterpiece of Artistry

Praising the exceptional craftsmanship of artist Susanta Ray, the District Magistrate said, "Susanta Ray is not only the pride of this district but of the whole of Bengal. His wax art is of international standard. He is a priceless gem of Bengal." Minister Malay Ghatak echoed these sentiments, stating, "This artist has made a name for himself not only in Bengal but across India. I hope he becomes the best wax artist in the country." The Minister’s words are a testament to the artist’s dedication and skill, which have earned him recognition and accolades across the nation.

The Inspirational Story of Sunita Williams

Sunita Williams, an American astronaut with ancestral roots in India, is celebrated for her remarkable achievements in space exploration. Her extended stay aboard the International Space Station and record-breaking spacewalks have inspired countless individuals around the world. Speaking about his inspiration, artist Susanta Ray said, "The idea to create Sunita Williams’s statue came to me after she returned from space following a long nine months. She is the pride of our country. Her life story will inspire the new generation to explore science and space." Ray’s words reflect the nation’s pride in Williams’s accomplishments and the impact she has had on the younger generation.

The Making of a Masterpiece

The wax statue took nearly two months to complete, slightly longer than Roy’s usual timeline of one and a half months per statue. The main challenge, he said, was obtaining the astronaut-style suit, which was sourced from the United States at a cost of Rs 10,000, with assistance from the director of the Jaipur Wax Museum. The attention to detail and commitment to accuracy are evident in the statue’s design, which mirrors Sunita Williams’s actual height, facial features, and body posture. Her vibrant space uniform, accurately replicated, has already captivated audiences and become a talking point among visitors.

A Surge in Visitors and Social Media Buzz

Since the unveiling, the museum has seen a significant surge in visitors, with people of all ages taking selfies and sharing videos on social media. Visitors were particularly struck by the statue’s striking resemblance and Sunita’s smiling expression. The museum’s social media channels have been flooded with comments and messages, with many praising the artist’s skill and attention to detail. The statue has become a must-visit attraction in the city, with many schools and colleges planning trips to the museum to inspire their students.

The Susanta Ray Wax Museum: A Treasure Trove of Celebrities

The Susanta Ray Wax Museum currently houses over a hundred wax figures, including representations of Shah Rukh Khan, Sushant Singh Rajput, Virat Kohli, Mahatma Gandhi, and Amitabh Bachchan. The museum also features a mirrored gallery named ‘Sheesh Mahal’, which enhances the visitor experience with creative light reflections. The museum is a treasure trove of celebrities, with each statue meticulously crafted to capture the essence and spirit of the individual. Visitors can expect to be amazed by the lifelike replicas and the opportunity to take photos with their favorite stars.

Conclusion

The unveiling of the wax statue of astronaut Sunita Williams marks a significant milestone for the Susanta Ray Wax Museum and the city of Asansol. The statue is a testament to the artist’s skill and dedication, and a tribute to the inspirational story of Sunita Williams. As the museum continues to attract visitors from across the nation, it is clear that the wax statue of Sunita Williams will remain a crowd-pleaser, inspiring generations to come. With its exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, the statue is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in space exploration, astronomy, or simply looking for a unique experience.

About the Author

This article was published by Atul Mishra on June 9, 2025. The author is a freelance writer and journalist with a passion for storytelling and a keen interest in space exploration and astronomy. With a background in English literature and journalism, the author has written extensively on a range of topics, including science, technology, and entertainment.

Content originally published by www.indiatoday.in