Mahamastakabhisheka of Lord Bahubali tomorrow

Dharmastala, Karnataka, Feb 1 (UNI) The stage has been set for the century's first Mahamastakabhisheka (head anointing ceremony) of the 39-foot-high monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali at Ratnagiri hills in this famous temple town, tomorrow morning.

The entire temple town had been decked up with welcome arches, banners and illuminations to greet a large number of Jain and other devotees.

The statue was being anointed for the third time after a gap of 12 years, following the one immediately after the installation and consecration in 1982 and then in 1995.

As a prelude to the mega event tomorrow, the statue was anointed by Dr D Veerendra Hegade, the Dharmadhikari of Srikshetra Dharmastala, and his family members today. The statue was first anointed with 504 kalashas (pots) of water, followed by tender coconut, sugarcane juice, milk, rice flour, turmeric powder, 'Kashaya' (concoction), sandalwood paste and 'Astagandha'.

The Mastakabhisheka to Lord Bahubali, which began at 1044 hrs, culminated with the Mahamangalarathi at 1330 hrs. 'Pushpavristi' (showering with flower petals) was also held on the occasion.

A huge steel scaffolding was erected behind the statue for performing the anointing ceremony, being held under the guidance of renowned senior Jain Muni 102 Vardhaman Muni Maharaj.

During the last four days, various religious rituals to Bhagwan Chandranatha Thirthankar such as 'Garbhavarana Kalyan' was also held, culminating with 'Kevala Jnana Kalyan' today.

Meanwhile, elaborate arrangements have been made at both Ratnagiri and around the temple for the smooth conduct of the mega event. Closed circuit televisions have been installed to witness the religious spectacle, besides arranging special KSRTC buses from various parts of the State. The district administration had deployed additional police force to maintain law and order during the event.

UNI