[Solved] Mahamastakabhisheka: The Great Anointing Ceremony of Bahubali

Mahamastakabhisheka, a great religious event, is associated with and done for who of the following?

[UPSC CSE Prelims 2009]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Mahamastakabhisheka is the 'Grand Head Anointing' ceremony, one of the most significant festivals in the Jain tradition.

Authentic Source Evidence

It is held every 12 years at Shravanabelagola, Karnataka, for the 57-foot-high monolithic statue of Bahubali (Gommateshwara), the son of the first Tirthankara, Rishabhanatha.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Option A is correct. The ceremony involves pouring sacred substances like milk, turmeric, and sandalwood paste over the head of the Bahubali statue.

Logic 2: While Mahavira (Option C) is a Tirthankara, this specific mega-event is historically and architecturally tied to the Gommateshwara statue of Bahubali.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Who was Bahubali in Jain tradition?"

He was the son of the first Tirthankara who attained Kevala Jnana after years of motionless meditation, during which vines grew around his legs.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The Shravanabelagola statue and its 12-year ritual highlight the deep-rooted Jain presence in South India and its patronage by the Western Ganga dynasty."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Shravanabelagola 2Digambara 5

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