BAHUBALI GUMMERSHWARA
Serene 1,000-year-old giant statue dedicated to Bahubali, located on Vindhyagiri hill and carved from a single block of rock
The serene 1,000-year-old giant statue is dedicated to the Jain god Bahubali (popularly known as Gommateshwara). Located on the Vindhyagiri hill, it is necessary to climb more than 700 steps carved in the rock to contemplate it. Remember to bring socks: shoes are forbidden and the steps can be hot. The site includes a temple at the beginning of the ascent, three temples at the top, including the one containing the statue, and a Manastambha, a column traditionally placed in front of Jain sacred places. From the top of the hill, a superb view of the surroundings is offered to you.
The statue of Gommateshwara, 17.50 m high, is carved in a single block of rock. It is the largest monolithic statue in the world and was installed here in 981 by Chavundaraya, a general in the service of King Ganga Rachamalla. It represents Bahubali in a prolonged standing meditation position. This static position has notably favored the growth of a vine climbing up his legs. This impressive monument was voted as one of the 7 wonders of India by the readers of the popular national newspaper Times of India.
Once every twelve years, the Mahamastabhisheka is performed: the huge statue is bathed in thousands of liters of milk, coconut water, sugarcane juice, etc. This very spectacular event attracts crowds of devotees and onlookers from all parts of the country and the world. The next Mahamastakabhisheka will be held in 2030.