Wed Jan 15 15:38:59 UTC 2025: ## 12-Day Jain Festival Begins in Karnataka
**Hubballi, Karnataka, January 15, 2025** – A 12-day Mahamastakabhisheka, a major Jain religious festival, commenced Wednesday at the Navagraha Tirtha in Varur, near Hubballi. The event, featuring the consecration of nine Tirthankaras, was inaugurated by Karnataka Governor Thawarchand Gehlot.
Governor Gehlot, addressing a large gathering, highlighted the Jain community’s commitment to truth, non-violence, and humanitarian values, citing their example as a model for others. He emphasized the importance of respecting nature and animals, noting that Raj Bhavan (the Governor’s residence) now serves only vegetarian food.
The colourful inauguration included a procession featuring elephants, horses, and folk troupes, culminating in the formal inauguration of the 405-foot-tall Sumeru Parvata at the site. The Maha Mantapa, the main stage, was inaugurated earlier in the day by BJP State president B.Y. Vijayendra. Numerous Jain monks from across India participated in the ceremonies. The festival is expected to continue for twelve days with various rituals and celebrations.
First Piper 