Sir,

I was saddened to read about a report titled “Grand Mahabhisheka performed for Nandi statue atop Chamundi Hill” (Star of Mysore dated Nov. 17) with huge pictures of monolithic granite Nandi on Chamundi Hill being reverentially anointed with liquids of many colours as I saw in the photographs.

Though I was not present there I was told the anointment (abhisheka) was done with such life-sustaining food items like milk, honey, turmeric, vermilion etc., etc.

I write this to recall a minor crack that had appeared near its forelegs and some experts attributing it to the adverse chemical effect of this kind of abhisheka. A similar report had also appeared with regard to another world famous monolithic statue of Gomateshwara where abhisheka (mahamastakabhisheka) of this kind is done once in 12 years. I guess we are warned about showing over-enthusiasm in the matter of abhisheka or mahamastakabhisheka.

– A concerned reader, [Name withheld on request], Mysuru, 18.11.2019

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