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Shravanabelagola, Karnataka, India

Shravanabelagola is a town located near Channarayapatna of Hassan district in the Indian state of Karnataka and is 144 km (89 mi) from Bengaluru.

The Gommateshwara Bahubali statue at Shravanabelagola is one of the most important tirthas (pilgrimage destinations) in Jainism, one that reached a peak in architectural and sculptural activity under the patronage of Western Ganga dynasty of Talakad.

Chandragupta Maurya is said to have died on the hill of Chandragiri, which is located in Shravanabelagola, in 298 BCE after he became a Jain monk and assumed an ascetic life style.

Plan of Shravanabelagola
Plan Legend:

  1. Gomatesvara Statue
  2. Siddhara Basti
  3. Akanda Bagilu
  4. Chennanna Basti
  5. Wodegal Basti
  6. Tyagada Kamba
  7. Chauvisa Tirthankara Basti
  8. Bhandara Basti
  9. Jaina Matha
  10. Kalyani
  11. Mangayi Basti
  12. Nagara Jinalaya
  13. Danasale Basti
  14. Sidhanta Basti
  15. Akkana Basti

Panorama of Chandragiri
Chandragiri Hill, located in the north of Shravanabelagola, is a significant pilgrimage site for Jains.

  • Chandragiri Hill is closely associated with Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Maurya Empire. After renouncing his throne, he followed the Jain monk Bhadrabahu to this location and spent his last days here.
  • Chandragiri Hill is known for being a place where many Jains have performed Santhara, a religious practice of fasting to death. It is believed that over 100 individuals, including monks, nuns, and lay followers, have attained salvation here through this practice.
  • The hill is home to several ancient Jain temples, including the Chandragupta Basadi, which is dedicated to Chandragupta Maurya. There are also numerous inscriptions and memorial pillars that highlight the historical and religious significance of the site.
  • The climb to the summit of Chandragiri Hill is considered a spiritual journey. The hill offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Vindhyagiri Hill and the town of Shravanabelagola, making it a serene spot for meditation and reflection.
  • The cave where Bhadrabahu resided and ultimately passed away is still present on the hill. It is a place of reverence for Jains, as it marks the final resting place of a significant Jain monk.
  • Chandragiri Hill, with its rich history and spiritual ambiance, continues to be a vital center for Jain pilgrimage and devotion.

Entrance gate to Vindhyagiri hill
Vindhyagiri hill is located south of Shravanabelagola.

  • The hill is home to the monumental statue of Gommateshwara (Bahubali). This statue symbolizes the ultimate victory over desires and the attainment of spiritual liberation, central tenets of Jain philosophy.
  • Pilgrims from all over the world climb Vindhyagiri to pay homage to Bahubali. The act of climbing is seen as a spiritual journey, reflecting the inner struggle for self-purification and enlightenment.
  • Every 12 years, the grand ritual of Mahamastakabhisheka is conducted, where the statue is anointed with sacred substances. This festival attracts thousands of devotees and is a major religious event in Jainism.
  • The hill is dotted with ancient Jain temples, each holding historical and religious significance. These temples serve as places of worship and meditation, deepening the spiritual experience for pilgrims.
  • Vindhyagiri is part of the rich Jain heritage, with its history tracing back to the 10th century when the statue of Bahubali was installed by the Ganga minister Chavundaraya.
  • The hill and the statue of Bahubali represent the Jain commitment to non-violence (Ahimsa) and self-restraint (Aparigraha). These values are central to Jain ethics and spirituality.
  • The journey to Vindhyagiri is not just a physical climb but a metaphorical ascent towards spiritual awakening and inner peace, embodying the core principles of Jainism.

Attic of the entrance gate with statues
The statues in niches represent Jain saints.


Standing Bahubali statue

  • According to Jain tradition, Bahubali meditated motionless for 12 years in a standing posture known as Kayotsarga.
  • During this time, climbing plants and creepers grew around his legs, symbolizing his deep connection with nature and his unwavering dedication to spiritual practice.
  • This imagery represents Bahubali's triumph over worldly attachments and his attainment of omniscience (Kevala Jnana) through his steadfast meditation.
  • It's a powerful symbol of the Jain values of renunciation, self-discipline, and the pursuit of spiritual liberation.

Seated Mahavira statue

  • Mahavira is the 24th and last Tirthankara in Jainism.
  • Mahavira is a central figure in Jainism, and his teachings are foundational to the religion.
  • In this posture, he symbolizes meditation, deep contemplation, and spiritual enlightenment.
  • The lotus posture (Padmasana) represents stability, serenity, and transcendence, which are key elements in Jain spiritual practice.
  • The depiction of Mahavira in this posture reminds followers of the importance of meditation and the path to liberation.

Jaruguppe temple
A small temple at the start of the trek.

  • A Jain temple dedicated to Lord Parshwanath, and following the Digambara tradition, one of the two main sects.

Climbing Vindhyagiri hill

  • The ascent is a key part of the Jain pilgrimage experience. Pilgrims believe that climbing the hill brings them closer to spiritual enlightenment and purification.
  • At the summit, the monumental statue of Bahubali (Gommateshwara) awaits. The act of reaching the statue symbolizes overcoming life's challenges and achieving spiritual victory, akin to Bahubali's own journey.
  • During the grand Mahamastakabhisheka festival, devotees climb the hill to participate in the ritualistic anointment of the statue, which involves pouring sacred substances over it. This event holds immense religious significance and is considered a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual experience.
  • Along the way, climbers encounter various ancient Jain temples and monuments, each with its own historical and religious importance. These sites provide opportunities for prayer, reflection, and reverence.
  • The climb itself is seen as a test of physical endurance and mental fortitude. It encourages self-discipline, perseverance, and the practice of non-attachment, which are core principles of Jainism.
  • The serene and scenic surroundings of Vindhyagiri Hill provide a peaceful environment for meditation and spiritual contemplation. The natural beauty enhances the overall spiritual experience.
  • Ascending Vindhyagiri Hill is a deeply meaningful practice that reinforces Jain values and connects devotees to their faith in a profound way.

Gomatesvara statue seen from southwest
The Somatesvara statue, also known as the Gomateshvara statue, is located in Shravanabelagola, Karnataka, India. It is the tallest monolithic statue in India, standing at 18 m (60 ft) tall and carved out of a single block of granite. The statue depicts Lord Bahubali, a Jain saint, and is situated atop Vindhyagiri Hill.

  • The hill is renowned for the colossal statue of Lord Gommateshwara (Bahubali). This statue is one of the largest free-standing statues in the world and is a revered symbol of Jainism.
  • The name "Vindhyagiri" is derived from "vim" (spirit) and "dhy" (meditation), signifying it as a sacred spot for meditation and spiritual reflection.
  • The history of Vindhyagiri Hill is closely tied to Jain mythology and history. The first colossus of Bahubali was installed by Bharata at Paudanapura, and later, in 981 CE, Chavundaraya, a Ganga minister, converted a tor standing at the summit into the current colossus.
  • The hill is home to several ancient Jain temples, including Odegal Basadi, Chennanna Basadi, and Tyagada Brahmadeva Pillar, each with its own unique architectural style and historical significance.
  • Jains from all over the world visit Vindhyagiri Hill to pay their respects to Lord Bahubali and to experience the spiritual ambiance of the place.

Reproduction of the Somatesvara statue

  • Bahubali is celebrated for his immense dedication to non-violence (Ahimsa) and renunciation. His story emphasizes the Jain principles of self-control and spiritual conquest.
  • Bahubali's life story, particularly his decision to renounce his kingdom and worldly possessions in pursuit of spiritual enlightenment, serves as a powerful narrative of sacrifice and the pursuit of higher truth.
  • The towering statue of Bahubali at Shravanabelagola is a major pilgrimage site for Jains. The statue itself is a marvel of ancient Indian artistry and serves as a focal point for the festival of Mahamastakabhisheka, which attracts thousands of devotees.
  • Mahamastakabhisheka Festival, held once every 12 years, this grand festival involves the anointing of the Bahubali statue with sacred substances like milk, curd, and saffron. It is a significant event in the Jain calendar, symbolizing purification and renewal.
  • Bahubali is considered an ideal being (Arhat) who attained liberation (Moksha). His state of eternal bliss and liberation is a key inspiration for Jains striving to overcome their own desires and attachments.
  • The story of Bahubali is embedded in Jain literature, art, and architecture. His image and story have inspired countless works of art, from statues to paintings, and continue to be a source of cultural pride for the Jain community.
  • Bahubali's life and the colossal statue serve as a powerful reminder of the core Jain values and the ultimate goal of spiritual liberation. It's a testament to the enduring legacy of Jain teachings and the universal quest for inner peace and enlightenment.

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Location

Location: Bhagawan Bahubali Street, Karnataka 573135, India