The 2019 Mahamastakabhisheka, a historic religious event held once in every 12 years, recently kickstarted in Dharmasthala, Karnataka, for the towering Bahubali statue. Known to be a major event in the Jain community, this anointing ceremony celebrates the life and teachings of Lord Bahubali and his contribution towards Jainism.
About the Bahubali Statue
The monolithic statue of Bahubali, located in Dharmasthala, stretches upwards of 39 feet, standing as a testament of the renowned ruler who turned ascetic. Sculpted by Renjala Gopalakrishna Shenoy and overseen by Ratnavarma Heggade, the statue was installed on Ratnagiri Hill in 1982. This year’s Mahamastakabhisheka marks the fourth celebration, following its predecessors in 1982, 1995, and 2007. Another notable Bahubali statue stands at Shravanabelagola, reaching a towering height of 57 feet and believed to be one of the world’s largest free-standing statues.
Understanding Mahamastakabhisheka
The term ‘Mahamastakabhisheka’ is a tripartite Sanskrit word; ‘Maha’ means great, ‘Masthaka’ signifies head, and ‘Abhisheka’ refers to anointing. As a whole, it translates to ‘the head anointing ceremony’, otherwise known as the Grand Consecration. This event, exclusively celebrated every 12 years, sees the anointment of the Bahubali statue, signifying respect and devotion towards Lord Bahubali.
The Legend of Lord Bahubali
Jain mythology perceives Lord Bahubali as a figure embodying renunciation and self-control. As the son of the first Jain Tirthankara, Lord Rishabhanatha, Bahubali purportedly attained liberation from all worldly desires through years of meditation. His statue often takes the Kayotsarga pose, representing the relinquishment of ego and symbolizing victory over earthly needs. This form, known as Digambara, is seen as the foundation for spiritual ascent towards divinity.
| Event | Year |
|---|---|
| First Mahamastakabhisheka of Lord Bahubali in Dharmasthala | 1982 |
| Second Mahamastakabhisheka of Lord Bahubali in Dharmasthala | 1995 |
| Third Mahamastakabhisheka of Lord Bahubali in Dharmasthala | 2007 |
| Fourth Mahamastakabhisheka of Lord Bahubali in Dharmasthala | 2019 |
| Anointing ceremony of Gomateshwara Bahubali statue at Shravanabelagola | February 17 – February 25, 2018 |
Jainism: The Road to Liberation
Jainism is an ancient religion originated in India. Vardhamana Mahavira, a Kshatriya prince born in 540 B.C., stands as a prominent figure in Jainism. Attaining ‘kaivalya’ or omniscience at the age of 42, Mahavira preached for thirty years before passing away at 72. Jains believe in five fundamental principles: Ahimsa (Non-violence), Satya (Truth), Asteya (Non-stealing), Brahmacharya (Celibacy), and Aparigraha (Non-possession). It is a religion of self-help, imposing no reliance on gods or spiritual beings. The teachings of Mahavira are contained in texts called the Agamas, which later branched into two sects – Shvetambaras and Digambaras.
