Telangana micro-sculptor Ajay Kumar crafts intricate ‘Christ the Redeemer’ in the eye of a needle

Internationally acclaimed micro-sculptor Ajay Kumar Mattewada creates stunning microscopic replicas, earning global recognition for his unparalleled skill.

Ajay Kumar Mattewada, an internationally acclaimed micro-sculptor from Warangal, has created a stunning microscopic replica of ‘Christ the Redeemer’, one of the seven wonders of the world located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. While the original statue stands an imposing 30 metres (98 feet) tall, Mr. Ajay Kumar’s version measures a mere 1.1 mm and is crafted within an needle’s eye. Despite its minuscule size, the sculpture captures intricate details such as the folds of Christ’s garments and the positioning of his fingers with remarkable precision.

Mr. Ajay Kumar said that he has used self-prepared wax, plastic powder, and caterpillar hair for colouring. For the fine detailing, he employed delicate tools made from silkworm hair, which bends with a mere breath. “It took me 90 painstaking hours over two months for the creation of this masterpiece. It can only be viewed under a microscope,” he added.

This is not the first time Mr. Ajay Kumar has demonstrated his extraordinary talent. In 2017, he crafted a microscopic golden cross of Jesus measuring 0.95 mm in height and 0.17 mm in width. In 2023, he sculpted ‘The Last Supper’, depicting Jesus and his twelve disciples.

Mr. Ajay Kumar’s artistry has earned him global recognition. In May 2024, he participated in the prestigious World Art Dubai exhibition, where his micro-sculptures were admired by audiences and artists from 65 countries. The event featured 400 artists showcasing diverse artistic talents.

In June 2024, he secured first place in the “India-America Space Cooperation Visual Art Competition” organised by the U.S. Consulate General in Hyderabad. His needle-eye art won him an invitation to the U.S. National Day celebrations, where he was honoured by U.S. Consul General Jennifer Larson and Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka. Mr. Ajay also displayed his micro-sculptures during the event.

Mr. Ajay Kumar’s earlier works have also garnered significant acclaim. In 2019, his micro-sculptures depicting the Dandi March were permanently displayed at the National Salt Satyagraha Memorial Museum in Dandi, Gujarat. This exhibit was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who personally lauded Mr. Ajay’s craftsmanship.

With only three or four artists globally specialising in sculptures within the eye of a needle, Mr. Ajay Kumar stands out for his unparalleled skill. His journey began in 2004 when he set a world record, and since then, he has been featured in the Limca Book of Records five times. Over the years, his work has been appreciated by prominent leaders, including former Prime Ministers P.V. Narasimha Rao and Atal Bihari Vajpayee, as well as current Prime Minister Narendra Modi.