Karkala
A preparatory consultation meeting for the grand Mahamastakabhisheka Mahotsava of Lord Bahubali Swamy—who preached the divine message of peace through non-violence and harmony through sacrifice—was held on Saturday at the Sri Bahubali Pravachana Mandira in Karkala.
Presiding over the meeting, Dr. M.N. Rajendra Kumar, Working President of the Shri Jain Dharma Jeernoddharaka Sangha, said that the festival should be celebrated as a people’s festival with grandeur and devotion. He emphasized that extensive preparations are essential before the Mahamastakabhisheka ceremony begins.
Dr. Rajendra Kumar stated that the celebration should not only focus on the ritual itself but also include public welfare projects that leave a lasting impact on the community. To enhance the development of Bahubali Hills and the surrounding Karkala area, it was decided to prepare and submit a proposal of approximately ₹20 crore to the government. The funds will be sought from departments such as Public Works, Tourism, Archaeology, Minorities, and the Municipality to support permanent infrastructure and basic development initiatives.
He further mentioned that subsequent meetings will be held to form various committees and assign responsibilities for the different activities associated with the festival. “The success of this grand celebration depends on the collective effort of everyone involved,” he said, urging unity and cooperation.
A request was also made to the Archaeology Department to undertake cleaning and restoration work at heritage sites including the statue of Bahubali Swamy, Chaturmukha Basadi, Hiriyangady Manasthambha, and other archaeological landmarks.
Officials from the Archaeology Department visited Bahubali Hill to assess the areas requiring attention and development. Senior members including S. Anantaraj Poovani, Treasurer Dr. Jeevandhar Ballal, Senior Conservation Officer Suraj, Monument Conservator Anand Nayak, and prominent Jain community members such as Aandaru Mahaveer Jain, Pushparaj Jain, and Prabhat Kumar were present at the meeting.
