Gommateswara, also known as Bahubali, was a prince in ancient India who renounced his kingdom to become a Jain monk. He is revered as a symbol of non-violence and self-control in Jainism and is considered one of the most important figures in the religion. He was so unmindful of the world around him that vines grew undisturbed up his arms and legs and anthills rose around his feet. The statue of Gommateswara, which stands at nearly 60 feet tall, is the tallest monolithic statue in the world and is located in Shravanabelagola, Karnataka, India. His iconography is testament to the power of devotion and self-discipline and is revered as a symbol of Jain values and principles.
