Asia's biggest Rajagopura inaugurated

Murdeshwar, Karnataka, Apr 12: Srikeshtra Dharmadhikari Virendra Hegde inaugurated Asia's biggest 'Rajagopura' here today, in the presence of Shrimat Raghaveshwar Bharati Swamiji of Ramachandrapur Math, Hosanagar and Sadyojat Shankarshram Swamiji of Mathadipathi of Shri Chitrapur Math, Shirali.

The 249 ft structure, the 'Tallest of ' gopuras, after Thanjavore's 239 ft and Srirangam's 219 ft gopuras, is sponsored by ace industralist R N Shetty and family, who are known for their philanthropic services in the state.

The construction, involving over 500 skilled sculptors from Thanjavore, took ten years for completion. It has 23 stories and also lift facility.

A linga would be incarnated under the huge Shiva, who was already having a nandi of 24 inch opposite to him.

The magnanimous Shiva with the record breaking 'Rajagopura' stood as a testimony to the unstinted devotion and undeterred adventurous spirit of Mr Shetty.

UNI