Immersing ourselves in Adil Shahi Sultanate's tombs, ruins, mahals, and masjid for two days, spending an evening in Basanta Vana seemed like a good idea. This was going to be the last leg of our Vijayapura trip. Located at a distance of 5 KM from the city on Sindagi road the Shiva statue can be spotted from a distance. Walk through the lush green park lead us to the idol. Sitting cross-legged in yogic posture, Shiva's face radiates love and compassion.
Info: T.K. Patil Banakatti Charitable Trust of Vijayapura (Bijapur) installed this 85 feet tall and 104 feet width statue. The unveiling ceremony was held on February 26, 2006 on the auspicious day of Maha Shivaratri. It bagged the coveted place of third biggest Shiva statue in the country weighing 1500 tonnes. Six master artisans from Shivamogga and hundreds of workers have made this astounding structure possible within a short span of 13 months.
Nothing to be surprised because sculptures from Shivamogga are known for their impeccable carving techniques. The rudrakshi which adorns this statue is about 50 kg each in weight and the serpent swirling around neck is 145 feet in length. It is said Basanth Kumar Patil and brothers created "Word record" by donating 58 kg gold equivalent to their mother, Smt. Tulasibai Patil's weight on the inauguration of Shiva statue.
It is truly a great piece of work. Agreed the idol is massive, but it is the attention to detail that impresses the most. The rudrakshi which adorns this statue is about 50 kg each in weight and the serpent swirling around neck is 145 feet in length. captivates one's gaze. The crescent moon, trident, Damaru, rudrakshi beads, armlet, anklet, serpent, third eye, matted locks, everything is carved into perfection. The idol was made out of cement and concrete. There is a small Shiva Linga below the statue. Many devotees offer pooja with a help of a priest. Mahashivaratri sees a huge influx of devotees as many as two lakhs.
It is pretty evident the place is commercialized as the trust wants to make this a major pilgrimage center. Nonetheless a beautiful evening can be spent here. We saw kids playing in the park in slides, merry-go-round while their parents relaxing on the lawn. Several coconuts were wrapped in colorful clothes were tied to the ring around the base of the statue. It could have been fulfilling a vow (Harake) to God.
Shops around the place sold pooja items, soft-drinks, snacks, artificial jewelry, souvenirs, etc. After having a glass of sugarcane juice we took leave from the place.
Entry Fee: Rs 5
Camera Fee: Rs 5
Parking Fee: 20
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