Mysuru, 17 Nov

The iconic monolithic Nandi statue atop Chamundi Hills was anointed on Monday during the annual Mahamastakabhisheka, drawing hundreds of devotees to the centuries-old site.

The ceremony was led by Suttur Mutt seer Shivaratri Deshikendra Swami, with Hosamutt Chidananda Swamiji, Adichunchanagiri Mutt seer Somanathananda Swamiji and other religious leaders in attendance.

Organised by the Bettada Balaga Charitable Trust, the ritual marks its 20th consecutive year. Since 2006, the trust has performed the Mahamastakabhisheka every Karthikamasa, praying for rain, peace and prosperity. The 360-year-old Nandi, sculpted during the reign of Dodda Devaraja Wadiyar, remains one of Mysuru’s major attractions at an elevation of 3,489 feet above sea level.

The two-hour ceremony saw the statue “come alive” in vibrant hues as priests poured 32 sacred substances over the idol, including holy water, milk, tender coconut water, rice flour, sandal paste, turmeric, ghee, curds, panchamrutha and fruits. Hymns and prayers accompanied the ritual, while devotees were allowed to climb specially erected scaffolding to participate in the anointment under priestly guidance.

Organisers said more than 600 litres of milk, 300 litres of curd, several tins of ghee, sandal paste and fruits were used. Prasadam, including rice bath and sweets, was distributed to all attendees. - Salar News