Mahamastakabhisheka off to a traditional start

The much-awaited Mahamastakabhisheka, the anointment of the 58.8-ft statue of Gomateshwara, which is held once in 12 years, was launched at Shravanabelagola, on Wednesday.

President Ram Nath Kovind, accompanied by his wife Savitha Kovind, launched the mega event by unveiling the idol of Bahubali at Chavundaraya Mantap amid chanting of 'Bahubalige Jai' slogans by thousands of devotees. Jain acharyas, munis, Matajis, devotees and tourists were witness to the historical moment.

Huge flex boards, erected on either side of the road connecting Shravanabelagola, welcomed the devotees. Vindhyagiri and Chandragiri were illuminated for the occasion and the whole town was filled with festive atmosphere.

A variety of religious rituals and Panchakalyana programmes will be held from Wednesday up to February 25.

Cultural troupes, local and international artistes will present a variety of programmes every evening, complementing the event, to entertain the devotees.

Panchakalyana ritual

The Panchakalyana ritual, a part of the festival, was held under the guidance of Charukeerthi Bhattaraka Swami at Chavundaraya mantap.

The premises was purified with white sesame seeds and a Suvarna Mangala kalasha was installed.
Earlier, Jain girls, accompanied by traditional music, performed abhisheka to the statues of 24 Thirthankaras at Samskara mantap.

President's address

President Ram Nath Kovind received a huge applause, when he addressed the people in Kannada, by saying 'Sahodarara Sahodariyare Nimage Nanna Namaskara'. Governor Vajubhai Vala said, Jainism preaches sacrifice, peace, humanity and universal brotherhood. Everyone should follow the preachings for a peaceful life, he said.

Dharmasthala Dharamadikari Veerendra Heggade said, Bahubali's statue can be seen anytime, but it is difficult to have darshan of such a large number of Jain munis and Matajis at one place, which is a blessing.

District in-charge Minister A Manju, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, MP H D Deve Gowda, Deputy Commissioner Rohini Sindhuri and ZP president Shwetha Devaraj among others were present.

Water sports

Arrangements have been made for water sports at Janivara Lake, four kilometres from the town. It will be launched soon.

The Janivara Lake will have boating and adventure water sports, to attract the people. The Tourism department has taken up the works at a cost of Rs 50 lakh and final touches are being given.

The lake is around 435
acres and all efforts are on to attract adventure sports lovers. There are more than 10 water sports, including banana ride, jumper jet ski, power, pedal boats, double boat and rafting.