When I first learned that we would be climbing up about 700
steps today, I was immediately wowed by such an opportunity. But then it hit
me: it was 700 steps. Outside in the summer heat. While still wearing
traditional clothing. Uhh...
But my worries were set aside as we approached the
historic place. I took the time on the bus to read up on the history of
Shravanabelagola. Created around the 4th century BC, Shravanabelagola consists
of two hills, Chandragiri (the smaller hill) and Indragiri (the bigger one) and
around which is situated small town. A the top of Indragiri sits the world’s
largest monolithic statue-- a 58’ tall statue of Bahubali or Gommatesvara a
worshipped figure in Jain tradition.
When we finally reached the base of the
monument, I was a completely amazed. How was all of this made from one rock?
Wow! After a short introduction by our guide, Mr. Sushma, we began our ascent.
I’ll admit, the first dozen steps made me regret all the chupati,
plantain chips, and Mysore Pak I had eaten in our first days here. Yet
slowly, but surely I made my way up the steps. As they were literally carved
out of rock, the uneven and irregular statured steps made for some treacherous
moments, but with my friend, Gabby, and our other classmates by my side, I pressed
on. We made frequent stops along the way, taking in the view and giving our
hearts a needed rest.
When
we finally reached the top it was such a great sight to see the statute that I
had only read about. At the base there were both Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists
alike, saying prayers and giving offerings to it. But our journey wasn’t over yet. Graciously, we were given access to the very top of the temple--an
unparalleled view of the structure and the surrounding town of
Shravanabelagola.
After
taking in the view, we made our way back down the mountain. Interestingly, the
trip down proved harder than going up. But nonetheless we all made it safely
back down, feeling proud and awed by the experience. As a frequent visitor of
the Cornell equivalent, I can attest that the 161 steps of the clock tower is
nothing compared to the steps of Shravanabelagola!
After a delicious lunch in
the Hoysala village (thanks Donna!), we made our way to the Blur temple nearby.
Here again, Mr. Sushma provided a great history and background on the temple.
We
made our way inside and traveled around the perimeter, taking in the beauty of
the monuments and reflecting on their importance to the community. We returned
to Mysore that night grateful for our newly widened view of the world.
