Observations on Gommata, Gommataraya and Gommata Deva
By B. K. Khadabadi
Summary
The article examines scholarly views on the names associated with the famous monolithic statue at Sravana Belagola, exploring whether "Gommata," "Gommataraya" and "Gommata Deva" refer to Bahubali or other figures. It reviews various theories on the derivation of the term, referencing scholars and inscriptions. The piece discusses epigraphic evidence and historical reports about Gommatadeva and the role of Chavundaraya in erecting the statue, and concludes that the different names refer to the same figure—Bahubali—but that "Gommata" likely originated as a local pet name. It underscores the importance of regional languages and historical records in clarifying such terminological debates.
Conclusion
Despite varied interpretations, the study affirms that the names Gommata, Gommataraya and Gommata Deva all denote Lord Bahubali. Linguistic and epigraphic evidence suggests "Gommata" originated as a local honorific rather than a Sanskrit term. By analysing inscriptions and scholarly theories, the article reasserts that the celebrated monolith at Sravana Belagola depicts Bahubali and that debates over nomenclature can be resolved through regional historical sources.