Shravanabelagola Bahubali Statue, an impressive monument to Jain architecture, spirituality, and craftsmanship, draws both pilgrims and tourists from across India to its shores for guided tours that explore its story from 10th-century India. Chamundaraya of the Ganga Dynasty created this 57-foot monolith in 983 CE as one of the tallest freestanding statues ever. Every 12 years it is bathed through a ritual called Mahamastakabhisheka to ensure it stands as it should. Explore more cultural destinations in our Weekend Getaways From Bangalore guide.Gomateshwara Temple Bahubali, or Bahubali as it is popularly known, is an architectural marvel that captures the philosophy of Jainism. A symbol of nonviolence, peace, and spiritual awakening. Carved from one granite block and one of the largest monoliths ever made. Bahubali stands 58-feet tall. The serene expression on Bahubali's face represents renunciation and unwavering meditation - ideal qualities in Jainism which is why he stands on Vindhyagiri hill where one can also access more than 600 steps - this statue stands positioned to represent these ideals of Jainism as well. Additionally it also houses Rishabhanatha, first tirthankara of Jainism who created this statue complex and houses his temple pillar containing carvings depicting Jain practices from Jain scripture.Chavundaraya II of the Western Ganga Dynasty ordered construction of this Jain temple in 983 AD and it has become one of the primary pilgrimage sites for Jain devotees as well as being considered an important heritage attraction in Karnataka.An amazing spiritual experience, you'll also witness amazing rituals here. Chanting hymns, soft light of oil lamps, and sight of devout followers all combine to create an atmosphere that transcends material realm.The Mahamastakabhisheka festival is an astounding ritual held every 12 years. At this event, hundreds of devotees bathe the statue with water, sugarcane juice, milk, saffron, turmeric and sandalwood paste - symbolizing Shravanabelagola's immense spiritual and cultural importance to society at large. This annual event draws national and international interest as a testament to Shravanabelagola's spiritual significance and cultural impact.Bhagwan Bahubali Statue This monumental monolithic stone statue represents a Jain saint and symbolizes their pursuit of spiritual knowledge and self-realization. Looking for heritage experiences? Browse our One Day Trips From Bangalore.This massive 57-foot statue, made entirely from granite and visible from 30 km away, depicts Bahubali surrounded by temples of all 24 Tirthankaras and stands on Vindyagiri Hill which serves as Shravanabelagola's highest point - one of Karnataka's Western Ganga kingdom's major tourist spots.According to legend, Kalala Devi - Chavundaraya's mother from Ganga Dynasty minister Chavundaraya's family - dreamt of seeing a giant Gommateshwara statue, and made a vow not to eat until her dream came true. Chavundaraya then decided to build one at Shravanabelagola which was sacred for Jains.Jain literature recounts various versions of Bahubali and Bharata's duel in various ways, all emphasizing futility of fighting for worldly possessions. This story serves as a great example of Jain teachings leading towards moksha (liberation). Jainism emphasizes nonviolence and relinquishing worldly goods - with its magnificent statue of Bahubali at Shravanabelagola standing witness to this philosophy and teaching.Mahamastakabhisheka FestivalEvery 12 years, during this grand Jain festival known as Mahamastakabhisheka Festival, devotees gather to anoint Bahubali with sandalwood water, coconut milk, saffron water, pieces of silver and flower petals as part of a spectacular ceremony signifying victory of mind over ego and spiritual enlightenment. In 2019, this exciting ceremony will take place November 28-29 2019.At Shravanabelagola village in Karnataka state of India lies this 57-foot granite monument completed in 983 by Maharana Chavundraya who served under Rachamalla II of Western Ganga dynasty. Also referred to as Gomateshwara or Mahamateshwara statue is widely renowned as being amongst the tallest monolithic structures worldwide; truly impressive due to both its size and majestic form. The Gomateshwara statue stands as a sight beholding piece both for its sheer scale as well as its grandeur of expression.Complex comprises a main temple with a superstructure made of yellow stone, added later during various king's reigns. Surrounding this central statue are shrines dedicated to 24 Jain tirthankaras as well as a large pond filled with fountains - making this pilgrimage both serene and peaceful despite its immense scale - for anyone - regardless of faith background or affiliation, standing under one of the world's largest monoliths will leave an indelible memory that lasts a lifetime!Other AttractionsIndian is home to many diverse religions that are celebrated through temples and shrines all year long. Each faith has their own sacred sites which draw pilgrims every year - Jainism devotees can find incredible shrines and monasteries throughout Karnataka state, with Shravanabelagola town famous for the Gommateshwara Bahubali statue being one of the tallest monolithic structures ever constructed, standing 57-58 feet on Vindhyagiri hill.Bahubali is depicted here in his Kayotsarga posture, symbolizing spiritual enlightenment and discipline. Vine vines wrap their way around his legs and arms for added realism and spiritual significance; at his base is written inscriptions both Kannada and Tamil that recount its history and significance.Shravanabelagola's iconic 57-foot statue, dedicated to Jain tirthankara Bhagawan Bahubali, attracts pilgrims and tourists from all across India. As one of its top tourist attractions, it stands as a testament to Jain heritage, culture, and impressive craftsmanship - and every twelve years commemorates this achievement with Mahamastakabhisheka festival held to mark it's magnificence and spiritual significance. Additionally, Shravanabelagola boasts several beautiful Basadis which leave visitors speechless; these include Chandragupta Basadi Akkana Basadi etc - so visitors leave in awe-inspired by what they find here! Discover temples and historic sites with our Melukote trip packages from Bangalore.
