Daijiworld Media Network – Dharmasthala (VM), pics by Latha Shenoy

Beltangady, Jan 18: The stage is set for the Mahamastakabhisheka of Bhagvan Bahubali – a celebration that takes place once in twelve years- at Dharmasthala near here. Thousands of devotees from all over the world are expected to throng in to witness the anointing of the holy monolith at Shri Kshetra Dharamsthala here from Sunday January 28 to Friday February 2.

From security to parking space and accommodation, all arrangements are going on in full swing.  The holy town of Dharmasthala is decored with banners, buntings and is all set to host the holy ritual which is held with high regard by Jains.  The town is pervaded with festive atmosphere and the organizers are of the opinion that there is an overwhelming response to make this event a grand success.

Offerings (hore kanike) are being poured in huge quantities by the devotees.  Fifty quintals of sugar reached Dharmasthala from Javahar Shetkari Cooperative Sugar Factory in Kolhapur district of Maharashtra as contribution to the event.  A twenty one feet garland of rudrakshi and kesari buds weighing 52 kilograms was offered by Basavraj Siraguppi, a retired KSRTC mechanic.  KMF has offered 1,000 litres of milk for the ‘kshirabhisheka’ ceremony.

Speaking to TVDaijiworld, Dharmadhikari Veerendre Heggade said that five different kinds of poojas (aradhane) are offered to Bhagvan Bahubli before Mahamastakabhisheka.  Poojas are carried out with a faith that these will bring peace, harmony and prosperity not just within the community but to humankind at large.   Jainism teaches that poojas offered to Bhagvan Bahubali will also result in prosperity to the world that is good rains, crops and sunshine to all.

Chaturvimshati Teerthankara Aradhana is one among the five poojas was offered on Wednesday January 18.  Dr Veerendra Heggade along with his wife Hemavathi Heggade was present during the holy ritual.

 Apart from this, preparation to decorate the entire town too is going on in full swing. The building of architectural stage for the event has almost been completed while the construction architectural entrances (dwaras) along the main street too are going on simultaneously.  These white and grey coloured dwaras depict legacies of famous dynasties such as Gangas, Hoysalas and Chalukyas. Hundreds of people are working hand in hand to enhance the grandeur.

When asked about the accommodation facility for people coming form various parts of the world for the smooth flowing, Dr Veerendra Heggade said that appropriate measures have been taken on that front too.

In all, each and every one is putting in his/her best effort to make this event a memorable one.  There are no stones left unturned in order to achieve perfection in whatever they do.