Thursday, March 13, 2014

Gommateshwara, Karkala

In Karkala between 13th and 16th century, the Jainism gained popularity. As a result large number of Jain Basadis were built during this period in the area. 



In this period, a monolith of Shri Bhagwan Bhaubali (popularly known as Gommateshwara) on the leak of Granite Hill of 300 ft was erected by the King Virapandya in 1432 AD. The statue measuring 42 ft  in height, stands on a 5 ft high molded platform enclosed by a high cloistered parakara at a safe distance.



The striking features of the statue include elongated years, palms stretching up to knees, curly hairs. At his feet there are symbolic representation of creepers and anthills at his legs as he is standing for a long time in this position meditating after renouncing the world.



This statue of Bahubali is second only  to the massive monolith at Shravabelagola. There are few sculptures of Jain Thirthankaras behind the main statue.




40 comments:

P.N. Subramanian said...

I was not aware. I was confusing with Shravanabelagola. Thanks for sharing.

Unknown said...

Wow, this is amazing sculpture and history.

R Niranjan Das said...

Wonderful. Must visit this place. Thanks for sharing this.

Amazing wonders in my life said...

Lovely Photographs.. Refreshed my memories.. I had been to this place

Lowell said...

At 42 feet it would be hard to miss this statue. Don't know much about Jainism (nothing, really), but these statues are certainly interesting.

The Mukhtiars said...

Lovely as Usual

voyagetravellersdiary@gmail.com said...

Nice Post and capture.

Thomas Lee/Lee Lip Pang said...

wow! Quite a gigantic statue.

K.A. Acharya said...

What a magnificent statue! Great clicks.

Sylvia K said...

Awesome statue and so beautiful against those blue skies! Terrific capture for the day, Rajesh! Have a wonderful weekend with your family!

Ruth Kelly said...

It is amazing that these statues were built in such a long time ago.

sunshine said...

Great place and statues.

Anonymous said...

What a splendid statue!

Carver said...

The statues are fantastic.

Al said...

That's a huge statue - nice shots!

Randi said...

Your images are fantastic! Have a great weekend!

Leovi said...

Yes, I like that exquisite sculptures in an incredible place! Beautiful photos!

Photo Cache said...

impressive statues.

eileeninmd said...

Awesome shots of the statues! They are amazing! Have a great weekend!

carol l mckenna said...

Fascinating photos of your country and sky background is beautiful for SWF ~ namaste,

artmusedog and carol
www.acreativeharbor.com

Jim said...

Great sights.

genie said...

I loved reading the description of the statue. It is massive. What is the red between the toes on the right foot.

Heather said...

I imagine seeing this statue in person is impressive as well as imposing. Great photo!

Sudhir R said...

So beautiful!Yet to visit this part of the State, dou you think May would be hot!

eastcoastlife said...

Very interesting sculptures.

Birgitta said...

Great place and statues! Wonderful shots!

Wayne said...

At 42 ft, that is very impressive.

robin. said...

such long arms in comparison to the body!! nice shots!!

Chubby Chieque said...

Historical, indeed and I really need a country educational posts.

The reason I always keep coming back to learn more about your country.

Regards,
/CC girl

Sridharan said...

Lovely..!

LV said...

Always nice to see so many interesting things from you part of the world.

Magical Mystical Teacher said...

What a massive statue!

Blue Sky, Red Flowers

Terra said...

Very impressive statues and I am glad to have discovered your blog today.

Maniparna said...

Amazing sculpture.... thanks for sharing...

Anonymous said...

Impressive architecture

Kokila gupta said...

Its beautiful... The sculpture as well as the place and offers free accommodation too for day time.though you can donate if you wish to ...

Ravish Mani said...

Wonderful pics as well as info! Thanks Rajesh for sharing :)

Abhijit Ray said...

Informative and beautiful.

Yogi Saraswat said...

The statues are fantastic.

Richa Sonpatki said...

I hope this is a heritage site. Amazing sculptures and history.