Beltangady: Mahamastakabhisheka of Lord Bahubali Begins at Venoor
Pics: Shekar Ajekar / Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network - Beltangady
Beltangady, Jan 28: The nine-day Mahamastakabhisheka of Lord Bahubali (Gomateshwara) began at Venoor's Jain piligrimage centre here on Saturday January 28.
Standing at the feet of Lord Bahubali's monolith, chief minister D V Sadananda Gowda who inaugurated the ceremony said that he has rendered his service as CM without resorting to politics of hatred and instead tried to pay attention to the needs of the poor, development of the state and ethics in administration.
Acharya 108 Shri Gunadhar Nandi Maharaj said that there was a rumour in certain sections of the media that any chief minister who takes part in Mahamastakabhisheka will not last long in office. However, Sharad Pawar proved it wrong by serving as chief minister of Maharashtra for 15 years despite taking part in the ceremony, he said.
In reply, Sadananda Gowda said that power is never permanent, but how an individual deals with that power, and his deeds while in the seat of power, remain forever. "I am happy that my performance in this regard has satisfied me so far," he added.
He further said that 'Guru' and 'Guri' (aim) are key ingredients of success. "When I assumed charge of the post of chief minister, I sought the blessings of my elders, and even now I walk the path and example set by them."
He also promised setting up an exclusive study centre on Jain teachings at Mangalore University and keeping aside a sum for this purpose in the coming budget.
Shravanabelagola Mutt's Swastishri Charukirthi Bhattaraka Swamiji conveyed a message of peace and harmony, and said that one must introspect from time and time and think on how one can contribute towards the progress of the society. He added that the ideals and teachings of Lord Bahubali are a beacon light for the present society.
Dharmasthala Dharmadhikari Dr D Veerendra Heggade presided. In his address he said that there are too many temptations around us, but one should learn to stay away from them and concentrate on being a good human being.
The statue of Lord Bahubali was anointed with sandalwood mixture, milk and other items in the presence of thousands of devotees, Jain sadhus and swamijis.
Sri Digambar Nandi Swamiji, MP Navin Kumar Kateel, higher education minister Dr V S Acharya, MLC Ganesh Karnik and other dignitaries were present.