India, Dec. 12 -- When the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) opens on December 25, passengers will be greeted by a 12-foot bust of Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji.

Officials from NMIA and CIDCO said installation work is in its final stages, making the statue the first visual landmark passengers will encounter at the country's newest international gateway.

Final alignment checks and integrated lighting calibration are underway, alongside forecourt landscaping that includes basalt-stone detailing, concealed illumination channels and pedestrian circulation markers.

"Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is a revered figure for all. Respecting the feelings of Shivaji devotees, we decided to place his statue at the Navi Mumbai Interna...