Shravanabelagola (Karnataka), August 25, 2004: The historic celebration of the head anointing ceremony of lord Gommateshwara at Shravanabelagola has taken its pace this time with adequate preparations and is drawing the attention of the pilgrims at large. The pooja will be celebrated for all ten days to facilitate the devotees to observe the rituals pouring sacred water collected in Kalashas. Jagadguru Swasti Sri Charukeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji of the Shravanabelagola Jain Muth briefened and blessed the endeavour. The celebration will be telecasted live all over the globe. The programmes relating to the heritage of Jainism will be held in propagating the message of Jinas. He mentioned that all the days of pooja celebration will be given equal attention and priority. He opined that Jainism has immensely contributed for the development of Indian culture. The Jain religion, its culture and rich literary treasure will be made known to the public and the pilgrims on the occasion. The preachings of 24 Tirthankaras will be taught to the present generation of people propagating about the posterity. He called upon youngsters to take an active part in this historical event with great joy and commitment. Adequate facilities will be provided to the pilgrims and visitors fulfilling their basic needs. Sri Charukeerthiji is spear heading the celebrations with his suitable guidance and suggestions. The exhibits of the ancient Jaina culture, literature and art will be displayed and thus fastening the core of the religion.
The pooja will be celebrated by pouring holy water on the lord. The first and second days pooja includes anointing the lord with 108 and 216 Kalashas (pots) respectively. The third day pooja includes the use of 504 and from fourth to 10th 1008 Kalashas along with panchamruta abhishekha.
The Swamiji disclosed the deliberations of the Mahamasthakabhishekha at its first meeting of the national committee. -Jain Heritage Centres News Service (JHCNS)