Shravanbelagola, 51 km south-east of Hassan, is one of the most important Jain pilgrim centres. The tallest monolithic statue in the world, a 27 mt high monolith of Lord Bahubali, is situated here.
Thousands of devotees congregate here to perform the Mahamastakabhisheka -- a spectacular ceremony held once in 12 years, when the 1000-year old statue is anointed with milk, curds, ghee, saffron, and gold coins. The next Mahamastakabhisheka will be held in the year 2005. |