By Yathiraj Jain

Moodubidri, December 17, 2009: A rare ritual entitled ‘Attolige Abhisheka was performed at the Leppada Basadi (Basadi is a Jain temple) in Moodbidri. This special ritual is performed in front of the vigraha of thirthankara in the Basadi. The Basadi itself is known for its antiquity due to the unique statute it has.

The statute of the Thirthankara is built in mud mixed with several other ingredients and had been standing there for over 3 centuries. In other Basadis the statue of Thirthankaras are either made of granite or marble stone.

The Attolige means a temporary construction made of wooden planks around the statue of the Thirthankara, The Attolige is in the shape of a Ratha (Chariot) but it is immobile unlike the other chariots. The Attolige stands 25-30 feet tall. Standing on this Attolige the devotees of the Thirthankara will offer poojas. The Attolige is decorated with flags made of different colours and flowers.

On this occasion Mr. Unnath R principal and director of Natya nivasa Hassan was the chief guest.  Aramane Rajendra, Kesari Rathnarajayaa, of Hassan and Sunil Keerthi  brothers jointly organised the programe. Ms. Ananya   was the master of ceremony