The colossal concrete structure in the heart of Kerala in India, called Jatayu Earth's Center, took six years to build. It was the brainchild of Indian filmmaker and sculptor Rajiv Anchal, who always dreamed of bringing the mythical bird Jatayu to life.

At 200 feet in length, 70 feet in height and with a wingspan of 150 feet, this is the biggest bird sculpture in the world

According to Hindu legend, Jatayu witnessed princess Sita being kidnapped by the demon king Ravana. When Jatayu tried to stop Ravana, he chopped off one of the bird's wings with his sword. 

In keeping with the story, the concrete version of Jatayu only has one wing.  The fact that it's on its back with its talons curled up and its mouth open signals pain. 

At 200 feet in length, 70 feet in height and with a wingspan of 150 feet, this is the biggest bird sculpture in the world

Anchal told The Hindu that he presented a model for this sculpture to the Department of Tourism while at art college in the 1980s.  Although he said he got positive feedback, the organistion didn't take him up on the idea. 

However, years later, when a proposal for an eco-tourism project came up, Anchal was approached to work on it.  A website dedicated to Jatayu Earth's Center notes that the monument is a 'towering tribute to women’s safety and honour'.

It continues: 'Jatayu also represents a bygone era when humans, animals, birds and other living forms cared for each other and fellow beings and lived peacefully on this Earth.' 

The giant bird is constructed out of compacted concrete, except for the talons which are stainless steel. Work on the monument started in 2011 and it opened to the public in early 2017

The giant bird is constructed out of compacted concrete, except for the talons, which are stainless steel. Although the build project started in 2008, work on the monument didn't start until 2011 and it opened to the public in early 2017.  

The giant sculpture can be reached via a winding footpath or by cable car. A helicopter service can also be arranged.  Visitors can roam around the bird and scale its wings. There are also various rooms and exhibition spaces inside the sculpture. 

The giant sculpture can be reached via a winding footpath or by cable car. A helicopter service can also be arranged

Guests can get a bird's eye view of the surrounding countryside via an observation deck located inside the animal's eyes. The area around the bird has been turned into an adventure eco-park with activities such as abseiling, zip-lining and rock climbing on offer.

According to dailymail.co.uk