Shravanabelagola (Hassan dist)DHNS: Lakhs of people from across the country and abroad witnessed the 88th Mahamastakabhisheka, the grand festival of anointing the statue of Bahubali in Shravanabelagola on Saturday. The event is held once every 12 years.

The first drop of water fell on the 58-foot monolithic statue of Bahubali at 2.32 pm amid chants of'Bhagawan Bahubali ki jai' and 'Jai Jai Gurudev'. The statue was anointed with milk, sugarcane juice and saffron paste, sprinkled with sandalwood, turmeric and vermilion. The jain munis from parts of the world, jinamatas, devotees, and devotees witnessed grand event.

The district administration had made arrangements for 5,000 people atop Vindhyagiri. The devotees were seen occupying every vantage point - boulders, Basadis, stairs and Chandragiri - to catch a glimpse of the ceremony.

Thousands of devotees had gathered at Belagola town as only pass holders were allowed atop Vindhyagiri. Those without passes were allowed entry to Chandragiri.

LED screens

As Chandragiri was overcrowded, the people took a glimpse of the Mahamastakabhisheka from the streets where large LED screens were installed. Scouts and Guides were seen helping the people to reach the hill and a large number of senior citizens reached the hill with the help of 'Dolis'.