Information on Gomateshwara Monolith (Hassan, Karnataka) - History & Architecture

Gomateshwara Monolith is one of the most important tourist destinations in Karnataka. It is a huge monolithic sculpture with height of about 60 feet over a hill and is recorded in seven wonders of India. Situated in Shravanabelagola city, Gomateshwara Monolith is the pride of Karnataka and serve as a symbol of the splendour of Jain conviction. The statue was developed by Chamundaraya, who was the preacher and leader of Ganga family. The giant monolith was developed according to the admiration of Gomateshwara.

Gomateshwara Monolith Architecture

The structure of Gomateshwara Monolith is curved in a granite block and depicts Gomateshwara without any dress in his body. One key feature of the statue is that only a single rock has been used for carving the sculpture. Gomateshwara Monolith was created according to Jain architectural style and demonstrates outstanding craftsmanship. The body of the statue has been constructed accurately with proper ratio. The statue was developed with extreme courtesy and the face of the statue reflect a complete serenity. The statue is positioned at a hill, thus one require to hike over 614 steps in order to reach it. Gomateshwara Monolith represents the thought of reconsolidation, strength of mind and suppression of ego as key steps towards redemption. The form of Gomateshwara signify complete triumph over material desires.

Gomateshwara Monolith History

Gomateshwara Monolith was installed in 998 AD. As per Indian myths, Gomateshwara was the son of Adinatha who was the first among 24 Jains. While going on a spiritual trip, Adinatha decided to bestow Ayodhya, the capital city to his eldest son, Bharata. On the other hand, Paudanapura, another domain of Adinatha was handed over to the younger son, i.e. Gomateshwara. However, Gomateshwara was not in favour of this decision and thus, waged war against Bharata in order to extend his authority to other domains. This action resulted in warfare situation between the two brothers. However, comprehending that such step could result in huge loss of life and needless blood shedding, both has engaged in voluntary demobilisation.

It is worth mentioning that a divine presence was felt by Gomateshwara on that time, and during that specific moment, he decided to abandon every physical belongings as an incomparable repudiation moment. For about one year, Gomateshwara stood at a meditation phase without consuming any food. He stood in the similar pose as the statue for so long that anthill came into reality and his body was churned. The idea of Gomateshwara Monolith came into existence after this mythical act.

In relation to the story of Gomateshwara and his divine act, every 12 year a festival (Mahamastakabhisheka) is organised where the statue is rubbed with coconut water, honey, jiggery, curd, almonds, bananas and milk among other items. It attracts supporters of divinity from the entire world.

Gomateshwara Monolith Tourism Importance

The statue of Gomateshwara is regarded as the biggest monolithic statue in the world which makes it a significant place for tourism. It upsurges to great altitude and hence can be viewed from a distance of about 30 kilometre. The travellers can also enjoy beautiful view of statue along with its surrounding fields. The statue is surrounded by beautiful hill and expansive vegetation. Furthermore, from the top of the hill, tourists can enjoy spectacular sight of the Shravanabelagola city. Every year thousands of travellers visit the city in order to grasp a sight of the statue.