Mastakabhisheka in Halebeedu
It was a spectacular scene to see the 18-foot tall statue of Jain theerthankara in various hues as it was anointed with milk, tender coconut, water, sugar cane juice, turmeric, ‘kalka choorna’ (rice flour), ‘kashaya’, sandalwood paste, ‘chandana’ and flowers. Later, various religious programmes were also held.
The Jaina Basadi, constructed during Hoysala dynasty was maintained by the Mysore Rulers after the fall of former.
After independence Jaina community members in Hassan district maintained the temple. However, some 30 years ago the practice of Mastakabhisheka was decided to be stopped.
It was late Payanna Shetty of Muktihalli in Chikamagulur who was instrumental in unifying Jain community members and continuing Mastabhisheka. Today, Doddabasadi Jaina Sangha of Hassan is organising the annual religious programmes.