History
The Gomateshwara temple most fondly known as the Bahubali Gomateshwara temple stands as a monolithic marvel in Shravanabelagola, Karnataka. It holds the distinction of being the tallest monolithic stone statue globally, towering at 58 feet. This temple is located approximately 1 km away from Shravanabelagola Bus Station.
Architecture
The majestic Bahubali Gomateshwara temple is set on the top of Vindhyagiri Hill at an elevation of 3347 feet, the temple welcomes devotees via a flight of 620 steps starting near the pond entrance. As one of the top attractions in Shravanabelagola, the Gomateshwara Temple was crafted during the time of Chamundaraya, a minister of Ganga King Rajamalla, between the period of 982 and 983 CE. The statue, with its eyes wide open, seemingly engages in its eternal vigil, with an anthill backdrop symbolising Gomatha's enduring penance. Adorning the statue's limbs are creepers emerging from the anthill, while it stands gracefully on an open lotus.
Flanking Bahubali are two towering figures of Chauri bearers known as Yaksha and Yakshi, representing servitude. Encircling the statue is a grand pillared mandapam adorned with 43 intricately carved images of Jain Tirthankaras, erected by Gangaraja, a general of Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana. Kannada inscriptions grace the statue's base, while the encompassing outer wall showcases carved depictions of Jain figures, animals, and female forms.
The Mahamastakabhisheka festival, held every 12 years, draws crowds to witness the anointing of Lord Bahubali's statue with milk, curd, ghee, sugar, almonds, saffron, and flowers, with the upcoming event slated for February 2018. Within the temple complex lies the exquisite marble statue of Chandra Nath Tirthankara.Vindhyagiri Hill boasts several Jain basadis, including the Tyagada Brahma Pillar, Siddhara Basadi, Odegal Basadi, Chennanna Basadi, and Chauvvisa Tirthankara Basadi, along with the Siddhara Basadi and Gullekayi Ajji Mandapa located just outside the Gomateshwara Temple.
How To Reach
Ascending and exploring the hill and its monuments typically takes 2-3 hours, with dolaks available at the hill's entrance for approximately Rs. 800 roundtrip. Early mornings offer the best ambiance to explore the hill, providing breathtaking views of Shravanabelagola village, the temple pond, and Chandragiri hill.
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