The story
The Jain temples are similar to their Hindu counterparts in many ways like structure, pillared galleries, carved pillars, depiction & deities. The point of difference is the use of marble in North India & that of granite in South India. The South Indian Jain temples are more popular for their monolithic sculptures of the deities. Women play an active role in the rituals in Jainism.
Situated by Vindhyagiri and Chandragiri Hills, protected by the monolith Bhagwan Bahubali, Shravanabelagola is home to over 2,300 years of Jain heritage. The town bears testimony to the legendary mental strength of Tyaga (renunciation) and the tender message of Ahimsa (Non-Violence) that embodies the Jain way of Life.
King Vrisbhanatha decided to renounce the world & so divided between his two sons Bharata & BahuBali who in his external appearances was both beautiful and serene. Bharata set out to conquer the world. Great wealth & great power was what he earned but what troubled him was the fact that Bahubali refused to surrender. They tried a unique battle with three duels-
Dhristi Yuddha (battle of staring at one another.) Jala Yuddha ( battle in water)& Malla Yuddha ( wrestling). Bahubali won all three. His brother however started plotting to kill him. Ashamed of his brother’s greed, Bahubali renounced the world & stood in meditation seeking the blessings of Adideva. Years passed by anthills & creepers grew at his feet. Enlightenment seemed really far away.
Worried about his brother, Bharata went to Lord Adisvara. The Lord told Bharata that Bahubali was very close to enlightenment but was troubled that the land he was standing on was his brother’s land. Bharata then prayed & released Bahubali from the tough decision. Bahubali thus attained enlightenment & soon followed it up with Moksha.
The Story is as fascinating as the 12-year ritual. It is such a popular ritual that the number of devotees is in millions. The story of Bahubali is a reminder that man can attain Moksha if he is in touch with his inner self.
The true essence of the Mahamastabhisheka:
Jalabhishek: To be liberated from the cycle of rebirth.
Ikshurasa: In memory of Lord Adinath
Kashayabhisheka: To be devoid of inherent Human traits.
Gandhabhisheka: to eradicate suffering
Ashatabhisheka: for immortality
Pushparchana: To be liberated from lust & good.
Lampa: to overcome the darkness of ignorance
Frankincense: to eliminate the eight Karmas.
Fruits: offered to attain salvation.
Interesting trivia:
The Jains look upon Bahubali as the first moshka gami in the present cosmic cycle. Therefore he occupies an exalted position!
Gommateshwara means lord of the Hillock.
There are 8 categories of Kalasha are :
Shatabdi, Divya Kalasha, Ratna Kalasha, The Suvarna Kalasha, Rajat Kalasha.
Tamara Kalasha, Kasya kalasha & Gullakayaji kalasha.