Arrangements in full swing for Bahubali's Mahamastakabhisheka

Dharmasthala, Karnataka, Dec 27 (UNI) This famous temple town, a confluence of Hindu, Jain and Shaivite pilgrim spots, is gearing up for the century's first Mahamastakabhisheka (anointment) of the 39-ft-high magnificent monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali atop Ratnagiri hillock here, to be held on February two next year.

Preparations were on in full swing in the town, surrounded by picturesque Western Ghats, for the smooth conduct of the third anointment, after the ones in December 1975 and February 1995. The mega religious event, being held after a gap of 12 years, would begin on January 28 and culminate with the anointment on February two with 1,008 kalashas (pots).

Briefing newspersons about the arrangements here last evening, Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala Dharmadhikari Dr D Veerendra Heggade said arrangements were being made to accommodate about 60,000 devotees expected to descend here from across the country and abroad to witness the ceremony, organised for religious harmony and world peace. Besides, arrangements were being made at 'Bahubali Vihar', where the main event would be held, to accommodate 5,000 people.

He said the anointing would be held under the guidance of Acharya Sri Vardhamana Sagar Muni Maharaj and Sri Charukeerthi Bhattaraka Swamiji of Shravanabelagola. About 20 Jain monks, including famous Jain muni Sri Taruna Sagar Muni Maharaj, would take part in it.

Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy, Deputy Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa and several Ministers would take part in the ceremony and invitation had also been extended to Vice-President Bhairon Singh Shekawat.

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