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What is notable about the 10th-century statue of Bahubali at Shravanabelagola?
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Karnataka
Keshava Temple, Somanathapura, Karnataka, India.
The 10th-century statue of Bahubali—also known as Gommateshvara—located in Shravanabelagola, Karnataka, is a significant cultural and religious landmark. Notable features include:
- Colossal Scale: Standing 57 feet (17.5 meters) high, it is one of the largest freestanding images in the world.12
- Artistic Craftsmanship: The figure was carved from a single block of gneiss.1
- Historical Origins: It was commissioned in the 10th century by the Ganga general Chamundaraya.3
- Religious Significance: The statue represents the Jain saint Bahubali, who is depicted in the kayotsarga (meditative) posture. It serves as a major center for the Digambara sect of Jainism.13
- Mastakabhisheka: Every 12 years, the site hosts one of the greatest Jain rites, the Mastakabhisheka ("Head Anointment"). During this festival, the entire statue is ceremonially bathed in substances such as curd, milk, and ghee before massive crowds that can reach up to one million people.12