‘Anubhava Mantapa’ to unfold in Suvarna Soudha on December 9

Belagavi: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will unveil a massive oil painting of the Anubhava Mantapa, established by 12th century social reformer Basavanna, on the inaugural day of the winter session of state legislature in Belagavi, on Monday. Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar will be the chief guest.

The Anubhava Mantapa, a congregation of sharanas and saints, is considered to be the world’s first parliament.

The 20X10 feet painting was created, under the guidance of veteran politician B L Shankar, by Sathish Rao Shivamogga of Chitrakala Parishat, Srikanth Hegde Siddapura, Ashok U of Ken School of Arts, Roopa M R of Jagalur Raja Ravi Varma Art School, Veeranna Madivalappa Babli Bailhongal and Mahesh Ningappa of Jamkhandi.

The mantapa is credited with having introduced to the world sharanas like Allama Prabhu, Akkamahadevi, Madara Channaiah, Ambigara Chowdaiah, Madiwala Machideva, Dohara Kakaiah and Medara Kethaiah among others.

“Under the presidency of Allama Prabhu, the mantapa reflected immortal thoughts and profound philosophy. It wasn’t just a centre of sharana thoughts but provided permanent ideals for the upliftment of the entire mankind, providing the great thoughts of humanity and equality to the entire world…,” a press note read.

Legislative Council Chairman Basavaraj Horatti, Deputy Speaker Rudrappa Lamani, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H K Patil and Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka will also be present on the occasion.