Sunil Chadha
Shimla: The iconic Ridge in Shimla, a historic location overlooking the Himalayas, now has a new addition — a bronze statue of six-time Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh. This marks the sixth such political statue to be installed on the Ridge, joining the ranks of some of India’s most iconic leaders.
The statue has been installed at Daulat Singh Park, located on the eastern end of the Ridge, and stands beside the sculpture of Dr Yashwant Singh Parmar, the first Chief Minister and widely hailed as the architect of Himachal.
Commissioned by the Virbhadra Singh Foundation, the nine-foot-tall statue is made of ashtadhatu (eight-metal alloy) and has been sculpted by renowned artist Ram Sutar, who also created the Statue of Unity in Gujarat. The project cost Rs 24 lakh, part of which came through public donations from citizens across Himachal Pradesh.
Six statues, one historic Ridge
The Shimla Ridge is more than just a tourist attraction. It has over time become a symbolic space of political memory and reverence. With the installation of Virbhadra Singh’s statue, the Ridge now hosts statues of six distinguished leaders. Here’s a look at all of them:
- Dr Yashwant Singh Parmar – First Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh
Often referred to as the founding father of Himachal Pradesh, Dr Parmar played a pivotal role in carving out Himachal as a full-fledged state in 1971. A visionary leader, he laid the foundation of democratic governance in the hill state and focused on education, infrastructure and regional identity. His statue stands near Daulat Singh Park, now flanked by Virbhadra Singh’s. - Mahatma Gandhi – Father of the Nation
The Ridge also features a statue of Mahatma Gandhi, commemorating his visit to Shimla during the freedom movement. Gandhi had several political meetings here during British rule. His statue, placed near the fountain on the Ridge, remains one of the most visited and photographed monuments in the city.
- Indira Gandhi – First Woman Prime Minister of India
The statue of Indira Gandhi, India’s first female Prime Minister, honours her political legacy and connection with Himachal. She had a deep personal and political bond with the region, frequently visiting the state and playing a role in shaping its political trajectory. Her statue stands tall near the middle of the Ridge opposite Ashiana restaurant.
- Atal Bihari Vajpayee – Former Prime Minister of India
A popular leader across party lines, Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s statue was added posthumously to the Ridge. He shared a close connection with the hills and visited Manali and other parts of Himachal frequently. His statesmanship and poetic legacy are celebrated across the region. The statue is located near the southern side of the Ridge.
- Lala Lajpat Rai – Freedom Fighter and nationalist Icon
Lala Lajpat Rai was one of India’s greatest freedom fighters and his statue is a reminder of Himachal’s link to the national struggle. Though not directly from the region, Rai’s influence and ideologies had a wide impact. His statue was among the first to be placed on the Ridge and is located near the Scandal Point.
Who was Virbhadra Singh?
Virbhadra Singh (1934-2021) remains one of Himachal Pradesh’s most beloved political figures. A five-time Member of Parliament, nine-time MLA and six-time Chief Minister, his political career spanned over five decades. Known for his deep connection with rural Himachal, he was affectionately called “Raja Sahib” and was seen as a bridge between tradition and development.
His son Vikramaditya Singh, now a Cabinet Minister, called the statue “a symbol of love and respect from the people of Himachal”.
With these six statues, the Shimla Ridge has transformed into a visual political archive — honouring leaders who shaped not just Himachal, but the soul of Indian democracy. Each statue tells a story of leadership, sacrifice and public service, says Chetan Chauhan, a local resident.
