Colossal Image Of Bahubali The Sublime Seulpture

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided text, "Colossal Image of Bahubali: The Sublime Sculpture" by Dr. Vilas A. Sangave:

The text describes the colossal image of Bahubali (Gommateshvara) located at Shravana-Belagola, a renowned ancient Jain spiritual center in South India. This location is celebrated for its contribution to world culture through its saints, philosophical works, and sacred monuments, most notably the impressive statue of Gommateshvara.

Shravana-Belagola itself is a significant Jain temple city, housing numerous shrines on Vindhyagiri and Chandragiri hills, as well as in surrounding villages. These shrines are broadly categorized into two types: 'Bastis' (Jaina temples containing images of Tirthankaras) and 'Bettas'. The latter is a distinctive South Indian Jain architectural form, characterized by an open-to-the-sky courtyard with surrounding cloisters, and at its center, a colossal image of a saint, typically Bahubali. The Gommateshvara statue is the most ancient and exemplary of these 'Bettas'.

The statue of Bahubali is described as one of the largest free-standing images in the world, measuring an astonishing 57 feet in height. Its location on the crest of the Vindhyagiri hill, which rises over 450 feet, makes it visible from approximately 10 miles around. Carved from a single granite tor, the sculpture is finished in the round from the head to the thighs, with the lower parts (knees and feet) rendered in high relief, supported by the parent rock. The flanks depict ant-hills and 'Kukkuta-sarpas' (cockatrices), with the 'madhavi' creeper twining around the legs and thighs. The feet rest on a full-blown lotus pedestal.

The physical attributes of the statue are detailed: a broad chest, an erect 'Khadgasana' pose with arms dangling to the knees, and a magnificent head measuring 7.6 feet high, facing north. The face is characterized by a sublime composure, with half-closed, contemplative eyes gazing at the nose tip, well-shaped lips with a serene smile, a slightly projected chin, lobed ears, and curled hair. The statue exhibits the 'mahapurusha-lakshanas' (great man characteristics) in good proportion, signifying conventions of Jaina iconography that eschewed overt corporeal allure. The nudity represents the absolute renunciation of a Kevalin (omniscient being), and the erect stance conveys firm determination and self-control. The sculptor's mastery is evident in the detailed carving of features like neck creases, palm lines, hands, fingers, and nails, executed on hard granite.

The text emphasizes that the Gommateshvara image is unrivaled as a monolith, being carved in the round for most of its height, unlike Egyptian colossi or Bamian Buddhas which are reliefs. The sculpture's construction from hard granite is also highlighted as superior to those carved in softer stones. Furthermore, the statue boasts a mirror-like smooth and shining polish, a lost art rediscovered. This polish not only enhances the granite's beauty but also acts as a protective element against environmental exposure. The depiction of the entwining creepers is noted for its control, allowing the main figure's majesty to dominate.

Beyond its artistic merit, the statue's profound philosophical and spiritual message is considered its most significant contribution to humanity. Despite its size, the statue is highly expressive, conveying:

• Stiff erectness: Perfect self-control and self-confidence.
• Faint, benign smile: Complete inner bliss and profound sympathy for the suffering world.
• Nudity: Absolute renunciation and detachment.
• Huge size: The saint's greatness and the potential for human spiritual achievement.

The text quotes an unnamed Acharya who experienced a profound sense of renunciation and compassion upon viewing such a statue, noting that its facial expression conveys deep sorrow for human weaknesses but without any hint of despair. The statue's expression answers the question of whether human sinfulness or the compassion of great souls is more potent, offering a message of forgiveness and kindness.

The text also recounts instances of the statue's power to inspire reverence, citing how iconoclasts abandoned their destructive intentions upon seeing it. Its ability to remain untouched during periods of Muslim rule, unlike other sculptures in the region, is noted. Historical anecdotes include Sir Arthur Wellesley's awe-struck reaction and Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's profound impression, where he questioned if he was on earth or in heaven.

In essence, the colossal image of Bahubali at Shravana-Belagola is presented as a masterpiece of art and a powerful spiritual beacon, offering a timeless message of renunciation, self-control, compassion, and the potential for human greatness.