About

Home to the largest monolithic statues in the world, Gomateshwara Temple is situated at Shravanabelagola in the Hassan district of Karnataka. The holy Jain temple enshrines the massive (57 feet high and 26 feet wide) black stone statue known as Bahubali, the first Tirthankara (Jain deity).Inspiring awe among all, Gomateshwara temple was the idea of the Ganga dynasty minister and leader Chamundaraya in 10th century AD. Once in every 12 years, devotees and tourists from all over the world come to Shravanabelagola for the traditional event known as the Mahamastakabhisheka. In an extravagant ritual, the massive statue is anointed with milk, saffron paste, sandalwood, turmeric and vermilion. The next ceremony is in February 2018.