Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Father of Archaeological Survey of India
Sir Alexander Cunningham KCIE CSI (1814 – 1893) was a British archaeologist and army engineer, known as the father of the Archaeological Survey of India. Both his brothers, Francis Cunningham and Joseph Cunningham became well-known for their work in British India.
Born in London to the Scottish poet Allan Cunningham, he had his early education at Christ's Hospital, London. He later studied at the M.E.I Company's Seminary at Addiscombe, and at the R.E.Estate at Chatham. He joined the Bengal Engineers at the age of 19 as a Second Lieutenant and spent the next 28 years in the service of British Government of India. Soon after arriving in India in June 1833, a meeting with James Prinsep sparked his lifelong interest in Indian archaeology and antiquity. He was ADC to Lord Auckland, the Governor-general of India from 1836 to 1840. On 30 March 1840, he married Alicia Maria Whish, daughter of Martin Whish B.C.S. He was appointed as Colenol R.E in 1860. Cunningham retired in 1861, having attained the rank of Major General.
Military life
He saw action at the Battle of Punniar and was with the Army of Sutlej in 1845-46. He later became the Chief of Commission of Ladakh-Tibet boundary with Richard Strachey, then a captain in the British Army and Dr. Thomson in 1847. The Commission was set up to delimit the northern boundaries of the Empire after the First Anglo-Sikh War concluded with the Treaty of Amritsar, which ceded Kashmir as war indemnity expenses to the British. He was also a member of a previous commission to chart the border of Ladakh under R.A. Vans Agnew.His early works are from his visits to the temples in Kashmir and his travels in Ladakh during his tenure with the Commission. He was also present at the battles of Chilianwala and Gujrat in 1848. In 1851, he explored the Buddhist monuments of Central India along with Lt. Maisey, and wrote an account of these. He was appointed as the Chief Engineer of Burma in 1856 for two years, and later for three years from 1858 he served in the same post in the North-western Provinces.
The Archaeological Survey of India was set up following a correspondence between Cunningham and Charles John Canning, then the viceroy of India. Cunningham was appointed the first director of the project, which operated from 1861 to 1865. He published the first two volumes of the Archaeological Survey of India during his tenure here. In 1865 the Archaeological Survey was halted and he left India in February 1866 to join the Delhi and London Bank at London as its Director till 1870. In the year 1867, Cunningham was knighted. Upon the resumption of the Archaeological Survey in 1870, he returned to India to take up the position of Director-general of the ASI on 1 January 1871 maintaining his post until 1885. He was the author of 11 volumes of the ASI, while the rest were written under his supervision. He retired on 30 September 1885 and returned to London, and continued to write books on the Buddhist excavations and on ancient coins. He also published numerous papers in the Journal of the Asiatic Society and the Numismatic Chronicle.
Awards
He was awarded the CSI on 20 May 1870 and CIE in 1878. In 1887, he was made a Knight Commander of the Order of the Indian Empire.
Work on Buddhist stupas in central India
General Cunningham had visited Bharhut stupa, located in present Satna district in Madhya Pradesh in 1873 on his way to Nagpur. He was fascinated to find such a heritage site like Bharhut but at the same time pained at its ignorance by the people and the government. He left some guards behind to look after the site and came back in February 1874. He collected the scattered pieces of sculptures and records and tried to understand its design and lay out. He came third time in November 1874 with some legal rights. He carried some of the sculptures to Kolkata and started a Bharhut gallery in the National Museum at Kolkata. After a detailed study of Buddhist literature and the sculptures from the site, he published in 1876 a book titled "The Stupa of Bharhut", which is still an authentic book about the Bharhut stupa. The famous 8 Buddhist stupas have been built on the relics of Buddha in his honour. Bharhut is not in that list. It is still not clear about on whose relics this stupa is built. General Cunningham had found in 1874 excavations a small box carrying the "Rakh Phool (ashes)" , which could not be identified but he handed it over to the Raja of Nagod for safe custody. This could be because of the ashes belonging to ancient Buddhist monks.
Cunningham was associated with the excavation of many sites in India, including Sarnath, Sanchi, and the Mahabodhi Temple. In the case of Mahabodhi, Cunningham's work of restoring the Temple was completed by the pioneer of Buddhist revival in India, Anagarika Dharmapala.
Cunningham died in London on November 28, 1893; today, his collection of rare Indian coins is displayed in the British Museum.
Sir John Hubert Marshall (March 19, 1876 Chester, England - August 17, 1958 Guildford, England) was the Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India from 1902 to 1928. He was responsible for the excavation that led to the discovery of Harappa and Mohenjodaro, two of the main cities that comprise the Indus Valley Civilization.
Marshall was educated at Dulwich College as well as King's College, Cambridge. In 1902 he was appointed Director-General of Archaeology by Lord Curzon within the British Indian administration, and modernised the approach to archaeology on that continent, introducing a programme of cataloguing and conservation of ancient monuments and artefacts.
It was thanks to Marshall that Indians were allowed for the first time to participate in excavations in their own country. In 1913, he began the excavations at Taxila, which lasted for twenty years. He laid the foundation stone for the Taxila museum in 1918. The museum hosts many artifacts and also hosts one of Marshall's very few portraits. He then moved on to other sites, including the Buddhist centres of Sanchi and Sarnath. His work revealed to the world the true age of Indian civilisation especially Indus Valley Civilization and Mauryan age (Ashoka's Age).
Sir John Marshall is also known for his important part in excavations at Knossos and various other sites on Crete between 1898 and 1901 .
Knighthood
John Marshall was knighted in 1914.
SIRPUR
Chattisgarh, is an important historical Buddhist site of India. An important centre of Buddhism during 6th to 10th century BCE, the place was also visited by the famous Chinese traveller Huien Tsang in the 7th century CE, who also described the city in his accounts as a pillar of Buddhsim in the central region. The modern Sirpur, which contains the remains of the ancient and medieval Buddhist era, is one of the most treasured places for the Buddhists and historians.
The Buddhsit monastery at Sirpur - Chhattisgarh, which dates back to the 8th century CE, is one of the largest and most important Buddhist monasteries in India, perhaps even more important than that of Nalanda. The site comprises the remains of 100 Buddha Viharas, 4 Jain Vihara, 200 mounds and more than 100 Shiva temples. Besides, a unique nine-room area was also excavated, which has eight ladders leading to the rooms. Built by Mahashivgupt Balarjun, the monastery also consists of a Buddhist female monk, believed to be that of Haritika, who used to abduct and kill infants. It is said that the Buddha stole her child to make her feel the pain of other mothers. The incidence changed her and she became a Buddhist monk. The statue of Haritika also reflects the popularity of female cult in early India.
Ancient Sirpur in Mahasamund district of Chhattisgarh State is located on the right bank of Mahanadi, 84 km from Raipur. Right from 5th cent. A.D. on wards up to 8th cent. A.D. it was the capital of Dakshin Kosala, first of Sarabhapriya rules and then of Somavamshis. As per archaeological evidences and copper plates inscription it was not only the political but also religious and cultural capital of the region. After it went into ruins due to floods of Mahanadi, centuries back, it came to live light in 1872, when Dr. Beglar and Sir John Marshall visited it Famous Lakshan temple was excavated during this time. Surang Teela situated in the centre of the village was partly excavated in 1872 A.D.
It was first excavated after independence by Dr. M.G. Dixit from 1953 to 1955 on behalf of M.P. Govt. and University of Sagar. He discovered the famous Anand Prabhu Kuti Vihar and Swastik Vihar and also Siva temples and Jaina viharas, later from 2000 A.D. On behalf of Bodhisatva Nagarjuna smarak sanstha va Anusandhan kendra Shri A.K. Sharma excavated nine sites which yielded Shiva temples, Buddha Viharas with most equisite sculptures and 2.0 m tall sitting monalithic Buddha images and a huge palace complex of 6th cent. A.D. right on the bank of Mahanadi. Since this season (2004-2005) excavation has been continued by Shri Sharma a behalf of Deptt. of Culture, Govt. of Chhattisgarh. This season ten sites have been excavated yielding three Shiva temples, four residential complexes, palace complex a huge Buddha Vihara and most important the Torana Dwar of Surang Teela and a unique pyramidical temple.
The temple Torana Dwara is a unique in Chhattisgarh. The Pyramidical temple 17.0 x 17.0 m is built in five tiers has two garbha-grihas, the west one housing Siva linga and the eastern one housing a 1.10 m tall standing Vishnu image. In the centre of the two garbha-griha the unique Dhyana Tantra, a fine example of Tantrism is present. This type of temple is discovered for the first time in India where the sculptures of Saivism and Vairsnavism have been installed in one temple.
Excavation have yield apart from a number of most beautiful Sculptures, many stone inscriptions, pottery dating back to 2nd cent. B.C. revealing that Sirpur was flourishing right from 2nd cent. B.C. In one of the Siva temples images of 'Baiga' have been engraved showing that the Indigenous people were followers of Hindu religion.So far 184 mounds have been located in an area of 5.0 x 4.0 kms. The layout or the excavated buildings shows that the whole city was planned strictly following the norms of Vastu sastra, as none of the religious and residential buildings face south. To the south cheif house. Another noteworthy features is the presence of a 'Bhandara-griha i.e. a room on the south- western corner of the house which served as a grainary as it has no door and was approached from ceiling. This tradition still continues in Chhattisgarh villages. All the residential complexes are double storeyed.
A 1.8-metre Shivalinga in sirpur, believed to be the tallest in the state, has been found during the recent excavations. The Laxman temple in Sirpur is one of the finest brick temples in the country. Its construction style proves to be a turning point in the temple architecture in the 7th century. Apart from the nine room unique area, one more Buddha vihar with underground rooms and a six foot Buddha statue was also discovered here.
While excavating a huge palace like complex was found in this area. With it a big layer of charcoal was found and so the archaeologists think that this place was burnt down or was an accident. Some of them think that Sirpur was invaded because the trade was affected. Sirpur had been an important port for the trade route. It was on the way from a big port of Allahabad to another big port in Chhattisgarh. Since the traders had to pay more tax due to the smaller ports like Sirpur on the way, they diverted their route and the trade collapsed in Sirpur.
One surprising thing was found here and that is animal sex. This is not found even on the walls of Khajuraho. This is the rarest of carvings seen in Indian archaeology, according to the archaeologists. It was also believed that the society became sex centric which is evident from these carvings on the walls. Evidences have also came to the light that important buildings were fortified and had cow sheds in the west. Buddhist nunery was also fortified and has its own tank. Each building had covered underground drainage system indicating high degree of sanitation in Sirpur. The layout of the complex show that roads were wide. Palace had its kitchen on north-west corner and was approached by a ramp. As per description of Chinese
traveller Huen-Tsang who visited Sirpur in 643 A.D. the king was very generous and respected all the religions, ie. Hindusim, Buddhism and Jainism. It was a great centre of learning and pupil from South-East Asia visited Sirpur for advance education. The Vishnudutta during the time of famous king Maha Sivagupta Teevardev. The unique star-shaped garbha-griha Panchayatan temple was built by Mahasiva gupta Balarjun. As Sirpur has a unique location and the bank of Mahanadi with hundreds of mounds surrounded by thick reserve forest and of site of National importance it has all the potentialities to be developed and declare as world heritage site having eco-friendly atmosphere. It was the centre of unique Culture, history, architecture and iconography.
Sirpur is undoubtedly in area and population were than double the size of Nalanda. Huen-Tsang in his ‘Travellogue’ writes that at Sirpur at a time ready 10,000 students were studying Buddhism. This is attested by the presence of a large number of Buddha Viharas which are double storeyed. The uniqueness of Sirpur is that except for large temple, most of them were built by devotees. Govt. of Chhattisgarh is taking all steps to develop Sirpur as a prime heritage tourist site not only of Chhattisgarh but also of India where people can actually feel the presence of past and dream of future in a calm atmosphere.
- The CM of Gujarat Narendra Modi with the Tibetan leader Dalai Lama
Ahmedabad, Gujarat (CHAKRA) – The BJP government of Gujarat has prioritized its efforts to preserve sites that are going to be apart of the Buddhist tourism circuit in the Central Gujarat region. The tourists sites are going to include the caves of Saurashtra as well as the remains of the Buddhist monastery.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has been excavating the ancient Buddhist caves and surrounding sites. In response to this the Gujarat government has expedited its work on the preservation of such sites although it is still waiting for approval from the central government to go ahead with the planning of the Buddhist tourism circuit proposal.
The Chief Minister of Gujarat, Mr. Narendra Modi, has eagerly taken interest in this in these activities and as a result visited the excavation sites in Vadnagar of Mehsana district in North Gujarat to take a look at the work being done at the sites.
During his visit, Mr. Modi spoke highly of the excavation activities taking place. He brought to light the visits made in the past by Buddhist monks who came in search of spiritual knowledge and their influence in the eastern belt of India. He further stated that because the eastern belt of India is so influenced by the Buddha, the Buddhist relic findings serve as an opportunity to study his influence on the western belt.
According to an official of the Department of Youth and Cultural Affairs, they plan to build a shed made out of special fibre to protect the excavation site from rain and other damaging materials.
The official at the site also stated that the plan is to build a cultural wall to display the relics found at the site, for which 40 lakh rupees has been set aside. Furthermore, there is a long-term plan to build the area into a museum in Vadnagar because of the number (7000) of relics they have discovered since over five years ago. Most of these findings are from the Ghaskol Darwaja excavation site in the town of Vadnagar.
Some of the findings include clay utensils, beads, ornaments, silver coins, sculptures, tablets, plaques depicting Buddha and parts of a vessel with descriptions relating to Buddhism.
The Tourism Secretary, Mr. Vipul Mitra, said that the Buddhist caves found in various locations of Saurashtra region will also become part of the circuit.
Security has been dispatched in all areas of the site along with signs up displaying information charts about the history of the caves.
The caves are located in various places including, in the Shiyot village of Lakpat taluka, in Kutch district, the Ranpur village of Jamnagar, in Sana, in Prabhas Patan, in the Savangiri villages of Junagadh, and in Gondal taluka or Rajkot.
Many in the international community have praised this initiative by the Narendra Modi government after many ancient Buddhist monuments have been destroyed by Islamic extremists in countries such as Afghanistan and Bangladesh in recent years.
MARDAN, Pakistan -- The residents of Babozai village forced the owner of a mine at Kashmir Smast to stop blasting in the mountains, as it was not only their property but also destroying an historical Bhuddist site.
t may be added that Kashmir Smust (cave) is a rare Bhuddist site situated in the tough terrain of Babozai area that was discovered in 1862 and extremely rare antiquities including statues, coins and pottery were recovered during excavation.
Local smugglers excavated it illegally and recovered antiquities. Habibullah Khan while getting mines on lease just near the site constructed a road and made it accessible and started blasting that destroyed the mountains and settlement.
An elder of Babozai namely Inayat Khan Babozai told this correspondent that locals had inked an agreement with Habibullah Khan about the mines but now it was learnt that it was a great threat to the site.
He said the landowners would not let anyone to destroy the site therefore, some 300 people asked the leaseholder to stop the blasting. He demanded of the government to take the site into its custody and make proper planning to excavate and save it from smugglers.
Local smugglers excavated it illegally and recovered antiquities. Habibullah Khan while getting mines on lease just near the site constructed a road and made it accessible and started blasting that destroyed the mountains and settlement.
An elder of Babozai namely Inayat Khan Babozai told this correspondent that locals had inked an agreement with Habibullah Khan about the mines but now it was learnt that it was a great threat to the site.
He said the landowners would not let anyone to destroy the site therefore, some 300 people asked the leaseholder to stop the blasting. He demanded of the government to take the site into its custody and make proper planning to excavate and save it from smugglers.
t may be added that Kashmir Smust (cave) is a rare Bhuddist site situated in the tough terrain of Babozai area that was discovered in 1862 and extremely rare antiquities including statues, coins and pottery were recovered during excavation.
Local smugglers excavated it illegally and recovered antiquities. Habibullah Khan while getting mines on lease just near the site constructed a road and made it accessible and started blasting that destroyed the mountains and settlement.
An elder of Babozai namely Inayat Khan Babozai told this correspondent that locals had inked an agreement with Habibullah Khan about the mines but now it was learnt that it was a great threat to the site.
He said the landowners would not let anyone to destroy the site therefore, some 300 people asked the leaseholder to stop the blasting. He demanded of the government to take the site into its custody and make proper planning to excavate and save it from smugglers.
Local smugglers excavated it illegally and recovered antiquities. Habibullah Khan while getting mines on lease just near the site constructed a road and made it accessible and started blasting that destroyed the mountains and settlement.
An elder of Babozai namely Inayat Khan Babozai told this correspondent that locals had inked an agreement with Habibullah Khan about the mines but now it was learnt that it was a great threat to the site.
He said the landowners would not let anyone to destroy the site therefore, some 300 people asked the leaseholder to stop the blasting. He demanded of the government to take the site into its custody and make proper planning to excavate and save it from smugglers.
RATNAGIRI
Ratnagiri or the hill of jewels (Lat. 200 38� N; Long. 860 20� E) in the district of Jajpur is situated on an isolated hill of Assia range. It is 100 km away from Bhubaneswar, the state capital through NH-5 and forms the Buddhist diamond triangle comprising two other sites namely Lalitgiri and Udayagiri. The ancient Buddhist remains are situated atop a flat hillock sandwitched between the rivers Brahmani and Birupa.
Excavation of this site brought to light the remains of a magnificent Buddhist establishment consisting of a stupa, monastic complex, shrines, votive stupas, myriad of sculptures, architectural fragments and other antiquities hitherto unparalleled in Orissa and aptly comparable to the well known Buddhist site of Nalanda. On the basis of the sealings bearing the legend "Sri Ratnagiri Mahavihariya Arya Bhikshu Sanghasa" the place has been identified as Ratnagiri.
Hieun T�sang the Chinese pilgrim,who visited Orissa during 639 A.D. left a vivid graphic account about the flourishing state of Buddhism. However, the constructional activities at Ratnagiri got special impetus under the royal patronage of the Bhaumakaras (9th-10th cent A.D).
The excavations unearthed the structural remains of a large brick stupa No.1 (Mahastupa) situated on the south-western flank of the highest part of the hill that commands a view from the large distance. The stupa has elaborate square base measuring 14.35 m each side while superstructure is now partially missing. It consists of five recesses and six projections. Its height from the base to top is 5 m. The space between the two walls served as a circumambulatory pathway. The evidence shows that this 9th cent A.D stupa was built over the plinth of an earlier edifice. The area around the stupa is covered with numerous votive stupas of varying dimensions made of either brick or stone.
The high mound locally called Ranipokhari or queen�s tank is located to the north of Mahastupa. The excavation of the site revealed the spectacular remains of two monasteries lying side by side with a narrow passage in between, both face the mahastupa. The large one is earmarked as monastery no.1.facing south, this monastery is chatusala in plan and measures 55 sq. m approximately (externally) and with 24 cells with a spacious stone paved central courtyard of 21 sq. m. It is the largest excavated monastery in Orissa made essentially of brick but externally veneered with khandolite to make the entire composition very attractive. The monastery has pancharatha projection in front of its entrance.
The exquisitely carved chlorite door-frame with Gaja-Lakshmi on the lintel and the bands of floral, creeper and manusyakautaki motifs betray the superb craftsmanship in its artistic exuberance and graceful charm. The ornate doorway of the monastery is unique of its kind and marks the highest watermark of decorative art of India. The sanctum enshrined with a massive seated Buddha is in bhumisparsamudra flanked by the standing figures of Padmapani and Vajrapani holding chamaras on each side. The fa�ade of the sanctum is embellished with creeper pattern and elegant figures of door keepers. The construction of monastery is assignable to 8th-9th century A.D.
The monastery no.2 measures 29 sq. m (externally) inconformity with its counterpart is made essentially of brick, though the use of stone restricted to door frames, windows, kerbs of verandah and pavement, etc. The sanctum houses a standing khandolite image of Buddha in varada mudra flanked by diminutive figures of Indra and Brahma indicating the miracle of Sankisa. This monastery is immediate posterior to monastery no.1. Besides, the excavation also laid bare the remains of eight brick temples representing typical Orissan temple architecture datable to circa 9th-10th cent. A.D.
An isolated single winged monastery consisting of three cells and a verandah to the north east of monastery no.1 near museum building was also brought to light.Of late, the scientific clearance work (1997-2004) of Dharma Mahakala temple area unearthed ruins of a stupa and a shrine along with votive stupas, sculptures representing Buddhist divinities. The most outstanding discovery is a huge standing jatamukuta Avolokitesvara with an inscription datable to circa 10th-11th cent A.D.
Since Mahakala temple built over the remains of earlier Stupa was in religious use, it was therefore decided to transplant the temple in order to preserve remains of Stupa. The temple has now been successfully transplanted on the south west slope of the same hillock.
The excavation of site yielded a rich crop of antiquities including the stone and bronze images of Buddha and a host of other divinities like Tara, Lokesvara, Vajrapani, Padmapani Aparajita, Heruka, Sambhara and Hariti, etc. These sculptures are the finest products of post Gupta period of Indian art and remarkably preserve the Gupta idiom. A life size image of asthmahabhaya form of Tara depicting as savior of her followers from eight different hazards,. More than two dozens of colossal heads of Buddha of various dimensions reflecting the skill of artist with striking resemblance to their counterparts at Borbodur in Java and Anuradhapur in Sri Lanka are among the findings.From the available evidence it has been established that the constructional activities started at Ratnagiri as early as 5th cent A.D and continued till 13th cent A.D.
The excavated remains at the site open from sunrise to sunset. Entry fee for Indian citizen is Rs.5.00 and foreign visiter is Rs. 100.00 or US $ 2.00 while children below 15 years are not required to pay any charge.
The varieties of antiquities retrieved from the excavation have been housed and displayed in the four galleries of the newly constructed attractive site museum to the north-west corner of the hillock is definitely worth visiting.Entry fee for each individual is Rs. 2.00 only. The museum remains open from 10 AM to 5 PM and Friday is closed.
Excavation of this site brought to light the remains of a magnificent Buddhist establishment consisting of a stupa, monastic complex, shrines, votive stupas, myriad of sculptures, architectural fragments and other antiquities hitherto unparalleled in Orissa and aptly comparable to the well known Buddhist site of Nalanda. On the basis of the sealings bearing the legend "Sri Ratnagiri Mahavihariya Arya Bhikshu Sanghasa" the place has been identified as Ratnagiri.
Hieun T�sang the Chinese pilgrim,who visited Orissa during 639 A.D. left a vivid graphic account about the flourishing state of Buddhism. However, the constructional activities at Ratnagiri got special impetus under the royal patronage of the Bhaumakaras (9th-10th cent A.D).
The excavations unearthed the structural remains of a large brick stupa No.1 (Mahastupa) situated on the south-western flank of the highest part of the hill that commands a view from the large distance. The stupa has elaborate square base measuring 14.35 m each side while superstructure is now partially missing. It consists of five recesses and six projections. Its height from the base to top is 5 m. The space between the two walls served as a circumambulatory pathway. The evidence shows that this 9th cent A.D stupa was built over the plinth of an earlier edifice. The area around the stupa is covered with numerous votive stupas of varying dimensions made of either brick or stone.
The high mound locally called Ranipokhari or queen�s tank is located to the north of Mahastupa. The excavation of the site revealed the spectacular remains of two monasteries lying side by side with a narrow passage in between, both face the mahastupa. The large one is earmarked as monastery no.1.facing south, this monastery is chatusala in plan and measures 55 sq. m approximately (externally) and with 24 cells with a spacious stone paved central courtyard of 21 sq. m. It is the largest excavated monastery in Orissa made essentially of brick but externally veneered with khandolite to make the entire composition very attractive. The monastery has pancharatha projection in front of its entrance.
The exquisitely carved chlorite door-frame with Gaja-Lakshmi on the lintel and the bands of floral, creeper and manusyakautaki motifs betray the superb craftsmanship in its artistic exuberance and graceful charm. The ornate doorway of the monastery is unique of its kind and marks the highest watermark of decorative art of India. The sanctum enshrined with a massive seated Buddha is in bhumisparsamudra flanked by the standing figures of Padmapani and Vajrapani holding chamaras on each side. The fa�ade of the sanctum is embellished with creeper pattern and elegant figures of door keepers. The construction of monastery is assignable to 8th-9th century A.D.
The monastery no.2 measures 29 sq. m (externally) inconformity with its counterpart is made essentially of brick, though the use of stone restricted to door frames, windows, kerbs of verandah and pavement, etc. The sanctum houses a standing khandolite image of Buddha in varada mudra flanked by diminutive figures of Indra and Brahma indicating the miracle of Sankisa. This monastery is immediate posterior to monastery no.1. Besides, the excavation also laid bare the remains of eight brick temples representing typical Orissan temple architecture datable to circa 9th-10th cent. A.D.
An isolated single winged monastery consisting of three cells and a verandah to the north east of monastery no.1 near museum building was also brought to light.Of late, the scientific clearance work (1997-2004) of Dharma Mahakala temple area unearthed ruins of a stupa and a shrine along with votive stupas, sculptures representing Buddhist divinities. The most outstanding discovery is a huge standing jatamukuta Avolokitesvara with an inscription datable to circa 10th-11th cent A.D.
Since Mahakala temple built over the remains of earlier Stupa was in religious use, it was therefore decided to transplant the temple in order to preserve remains of Stupa. The temple has now been successfully transplanted on the south west slope of the same hillock.
The excavation of site yielded a rich crop of antiquities including the stone and bronze images of Buddha and a host of other divinities like Tara, Lokesvara, Vajrapani, Padmapani Aparajita, Heruka, Sambhara and Hariti, etc. These sculptures are the finest products of post Gupta period of Indian art and remarkably preserve the Gupta idiom. A life size image of asthmahabhaya form of Tara depicting as savior of her followers from eight different hazards,. More than two dozens of colossal heads of Buddha of various dimensions reflecting the skill of artist with striking resemblance to their counterparts at Borbodur in Java and Anuradhapur in Sri Lanka are among the findings.From the available evidence it has been established that the constructional activities started at Ratnagiri as early as 5th cent A.D and continued till 13th cent A.D.
The excavated remains at the site open from sunrise to sunset. Entry fee for Indian citizen is Rs.5.00 and foreign visiter is Rs. 100.00 or US $ 2.00 while children below 15 years are not required to pay any charge.
The varieties of antiquities retrieved from the excavation have been housed and displayed in the four galleries of the newly constructed attractive site museum to the north-west corner of the hillock is definitely worth visiting.Entry fee for each individual is Rs. 2.00 only. The museum remains open from 10 AM to 5 PM and Friday is closed.
BANGLADESH
Excavations at the Buddhist monastic site of Bhasu Vihara were undertaken in March 2003 as part of a long-term multinational project at the ancient walled city of Mahasthangarh, Bangladesh (Figure 1). Mahasthangarh has a long occupational sequence starting in the third century BC as well as an extensive hinterland of ritual architecture, making it one of the most prominent sites for studying pre-modern urbanism in the Indian subcontinent (Alam & Salles 2001; Gill 1999; Salles 1995).
The Mahasthangarh Urban Hinterlands Project was designed to evaluate the ways in which hinterland sites articulated with the urban core over time (Smith 2001). For this project season, we sought to evaluate the domestic component of Mahasthangarh's rural settlements during the first millennium AD, a time when the hinterlands were sustaining three sources of growth: Buddhist monastic sites whose occupants (monks and nuns) would have relied on local inhabitants for sustenance; pilgrims who would have come to those sites and lodged themselves temporarily; and the city itself, which continued to experience population growth and associated increased consumption requirements for food, fuel and building materials.
Located six kilometres north-west of the walled perimeter of Mahasthangarh, the site of Bhasu Vihara is located at the outermost edge of a band of dense settlement that surrounds the ancient city core. Excavations in the 1970s and 1980s revealed two monasteries and one large square shrine of approximately the tenth-eleventh centuries AD at the top and centre of the mound (Ahmed 1979; Chakrabarti 1992:100-106). Beyond these substantial structures, the remainder of the mound, at seven hectares in size and with up to 4 metres of cultural deposits, presents substantial potential for preserved archaeological remains away from the monasteries
Our excavations centred on a 5 by 10 metre trench in which we recovered the remains of at least four phases of architecture, starting immediately below the surface of the mound (Figure 3). The structure was made almost entirely of broken bricks, signalling that the builders obtained their material from another structure or from the waste-heaps of brick manufacturers. The layout of the walls suggests a great deal of construction and reconstruction, with a general fidelity to previous structural outlines but with some imperfections such as walls that "bend" in the middle. The alignment of the entire structure also seems to have been altered over time, with the result that underlying pavements and walls are at a slight angle compared with the uppermost additions. On the assumption of a symmetrical layout, we have been able to make a hypothetical reconstruction of the building using mirror-image duplication of the excavated portions of the structure (Figure 4). Parallels for this type of cruciform structure can be found elsewhere in Bangladesh, with the most famous exemplar being the central shrine of the Buddhist monastery at Paharpur (Dikshit 1938; see also Chakrabarti 1992:110-119, Qadir 1980).
Relatively few artefacts were recovered in our excavations of the cruciform structure at Bhasu Vihara. Most of the pottery consisted of jar fragments (constricted forms with a rim diameter of 20-22 cm), and open forms such as bowls and small saucers. Fragments of thick sherds or large rims (for example, typical of storage vessels) were relatively rare. Additional artefacts included the fragments of several decorative terracotta plaques recovered in the rubble of the structure, and iron nails from upper levels that may have been part of a perishable structure in the vicinity. Lacking any further dating information at this time, therefore, we would suggest that the tenth - eleventh centuries AD serves as a working hypothesis for the date of the cruciform structure recovered in these excavations.
Interpretations
The recovery of this structure indicates that the ancient inhabitants of the monastic site of Bhasu Vihara made use of at least three types of religious architecture (monasteries, shrine, and cruciform structure) indicative of a long-term and diverse investment at the site. While our original intent was to examine rural domestic habitations associated with the city of Mahasthangarh, the unexpected recovery of this structure serves to illustrate the high density and diversity of religious activities in the hinterlands. Moreover, the frequent reconstruction of this cruciform structure, and the employment of reused rather than pristine materials, indicate that it was perhaps built under a different architecture rubric than the well-constructed monasteries at the top of the mound. This suggests a variety of architectural types, in which expedient construction strategies were utilised for the development of ritual structures as well as domestic ones by local inhabitants. Just as at Mahasthangarh itself, where the prominent ramparts provided a highly-visible urban "container" for social and economic activities (Smith 2003), the hinterland use of Buddhist sites indicates a vibrant and dynamic series of cultural continuities.
VISAKHAPATNAM
Bhavi Konda, Thotla Konda, Bojjana Konda, and Salihundam located around Visakhapatnam were places of Buddhist excavations. These were hamlets of Buddhism during the second century AD. Excavation during 1906 in these places brought out many Buddhist monuments such as stupas and chaityas. It is believed that some of the corporal remnants of the Buddha were conserved at these sacred Buddhist places.
The visitor is blessed with the view of architectural remnants of the Buddhist period dated from 200 BC to 700 AD, one of the earliest of its class in South India.
Dantapuram, another Buddhist excavation site, is pretty placed at the confluence of river Vamsadhara with the Bay of Bengal not far away from Vizag. The excavations in this holy place have exposed many stupas and antiquities.
On the eastern hill, there are a series of rock-cut caves, numerous groups of monolithic dagobas, standing on rock platform in tiers above each others and, crowning all, a rock-cut stupa with extensive structural remains. On the western side of the eastern hill is a stairway, partly rock-cut and partly structural, which leads up to a large double-storied cave. The cave is entered by a doorway and is flanked on each side by huge dwarapalas.
ORISSA
Lalitgiri, locally known as Naltigiri (Lat. 20 35” N and Long. 86 15” E) in Birupa-Chitrotpala valley is one among the major centers of Buddhism in the Mahanga Tahsil of Cuttack district. It is 90 km. away from the state capital, Bhubaneswar. The site is couched between hills of Parabhadi and Landa of the isolated Assian range.
The archaeological treasures of the hills and its vicinity were first brought to light by M.M.Chakravarty, the then Sub Divisional Officer, Jajpur in 1905. Subsequently in 1927-28, R.P.Chanda of Indian Museum Kolkatta made reference of Lalitgiri in the Memoirs of Archaeological Survey of India. The site was declared centrally protected monument in the year 1937.
A small scale excavation was attended at Lalitgiri by Utkal University in 1977. The Bhubaneswar circle of the Archaeological Survey of India carried out extensive excavations at Lalitgiri between 1985-1991. The excavation has revealed the remains of a massive stupa on hill top. In side the stupa two relic caskets kept in a container made of Khandolite stone were found. The discovery of relic caskets was the first of its kind in the eastern India. Within the stone container, a steatite, a silver and a gold casket inside one another were also recovered. The inner-most gold casket contained the relic or dhatu in the form of a small fragment of bone. These un-inscribed caskets were arranged in the manner of Chinese puzzle box.
Another important discovery of the site was structural remains of an east facing large brick built apsidal chaityagriha measuring 33 x 11 m with 3.3.m thick wall with a circular stupa in the center of chaityagriha. The discovery of such edifice is also first of its kind in the Buddhist context in Orissa. Other important finds from this area are the Kushana Brahmi inscriptions, a series of shell inscriptions deeply incised on moonstone of the threshold of the edifice, a fragmentary pillar railing having lenticular socket with half lotus medallion motif, etc. The above evidence suggests that the aforesaid structure remained in use from early Christian era to circa 6th-7th century.
The archeological excavation of the site further yielded the remains of four monasteries. Among these, the east facing double storied monastery no.1 is the largest one and measures 36 sq.mtr (externally) with a 12.9 m square courtyard in the centre. It is datable to 10th-11th century AD. A large brick built cistern abutting the natural bedrock was also brought to light probably meant for storing rain water which was constructed at the backside of the monastery. Partially exposed monastery no.2 in the extreme north side of the hill was built during the decadence phase of Buddhism at Lalitgiri. Monastery no.3 facing south-east, measures 28 x 27 m with a courtyard of 8 sq. m in the centre is the earliest in the complex and goes well with the last phase of apsidal chaitya. The west facing monastery no.4 which measures 30 sq. m, enshrines a massive headless Buddha images in the sanctum. One terracotta monastic seal which reads “Sri Chandraditya Vihara Samagra Arya Vikshu Sanghasa” datable to 9th-10th century A.D unearthed during excavation is one among the important findings of Lalitagiri.
Majority of the sculptures unearthed from excavation are the figures of Buddha in different postures belonging to Mahayanistic phase of Buddhism. Among the other antiquities, a gold pendant, silver ornaments, stone plaques of Ganesha and Mahisasurmardini, a seal matrix-cum-pendant, a tiny figure of Avloketisvara deserve special mention.Apart from these, inscribed potsherds belonging to different time spans i.e. post Mauryan period to 8th-9th century A.D. suggest that the Lalitagiri was under occupation by the both Hinayana and Mahayana sects. In subsequent period the site came under the control of Vajrayana faith of Buddhism patronized by the ruling Bhaumakaras (9th-10th cent A.D).Thus, Lalitgiri is one of the earliest Buddhist sites of Orissa shows the cultural continuity right from the post Mauryan period to 13th cent A.D without any break.
Buddha came to Varanasi 2500 years ago, after gaining Enlightenment at Bodh Gaya. The sermon that he gave at the Deer Park on the outskirts of the city to his five followers, led to the foundation religion that has today spread across the world. 
One of the most famous remains of the period is the Ashoka pillar, with its famouS lion capital that was subsequenth adopted as the official emblem of the Indian Republic Chinese travellers. Fa Hien and Hiuen tsang, have left behind descriptions of Sarnath in its heyday. they say that some 1500, monks lived in the monastery then and there was a stupa that was nearly 100 metres high polgrims came to worship at te bodhi tree that was grown from a sapling of the one in bodh Gaya. However, in the late 12th century, both Varanasi and Sarrtatn faced the first onslaught of Muslim invasions. After Qutbuddin Aibak's attack in 1144, the monastery lay in ruins, and Sarnath no longer echoed to the chants of the monks. Seven hundred years leter in 1834, the British archaeological Alexander Cunningham, rediscovered sarnath opening a window to a forgotten period of inida's ancient history.
Dhamekh Stupa
Dhamekh Stupa, a 33-metre high cylindrical tower, was high cylindrical tower, 
Dharmarajika Stupa
Emperor Ashoka built the Dharmarajika Stupa at the site where the Buddha gave his first sermon. It was broken down in the 18th century by an officer of the Maharaja of Benaras who was searching for building material for a bazaar. During his excavations, Cunningham found inside the stupa a marble casket that might have contained the relics of the buddha. just behind the dharmarajika stupa are the remains of the ashoka pollar one of the many that emperor ashoka erected. the monolithic pillar was once crowned with the magnificent lion capital that is now in the sarnath museum. the four roaring lions face the four four cardinal directions symbolising the spread of the buddha's teaching. the pollar was originally 15 metres tall and the lions supported a dharmachakra of the wheel of law but only a few fragments ot it have been found. The insciption on it is a warning by Ashoka to the monks and nuns against creating schism within the sangha or Order.
Mulgandhakuti Vihara
Mulgandhakuti marks the site where the Buddha meditated during his monsoon retreats or uassavasa at sarnath. Excavations have unearthed a statue of a bodhisttva from the 1st century AD. a tablet was also found on which the name of the shrine was carved in 1922 a temple the mulgandhakuti vihara was built here to enshrine the relics of the buddha that were discovered at taxila now in neighbouring pakistan. the interior has lifesize murals painted by a japanese artist between 1932-35 outside is the bodhi tree and its spreading branches symbolise the return of buddhism
Chaukhandi
The first landmark visitors see on their way to sarnath from varanasi is a gigh 
Sarnath Museum
The sarnath museum is a treasure trove of buddhist sculpture inscription and pottery. some of the finest images
Festivals
Buddha purnima the full moon night in may when the birth of the buddha is celebrated is the biggest ammual festival at sarnath. a big fair springs up on the occasion and the entire town celebrates with prayer meeting group meditation and processions. during the first full moon in november monks and scholars commemorate the founding of mulgandhakuti vihara.
Sarnath was famous for its sanctity, beauty and natural scenery. Its mysits glory had attracted the Buddha to give his first sermon in 528 B.C. when the Buddha was 35 years of age. According to Buddhist literature the Buddha in his final years of life expressed to his disciples that they should visit the four places connected with the main event of life-his birth (Lumbani), enlightenment (gaya), first preaching (sarnath) and death (Kushinagar). Sarnath is the place where the third event took place. This event is know as " Turing of the weel-of-the law" (sankrit: dharamchakra-pravartan), it is believed that ever since it has been in motion.
The first sermon known as " the four novel truths " (Sanskrit: catavri arya-satyani, pali: cattari ariya-sachhani) refer to suffering the origin of suffering, the cessation of suffering and leading to the cessation of suffering. This first sermon is carved in Pali inscription of four lines on a fragment of an old stone umberella, dated about 2nd century C.E. (kushan Perion). This is only Pali inscription found in northern India.
Tourist sites
There are various group of object of site and scene, among them following are notables:
Choukhandi
This is believed that this stup was construct prior to the time of gupta kings and said to mark the actual spot where the Buddha after his enlightenment, met five ascetics who had earlier left him. There is octagonal tower on the top of the building.
Dhamekha Sputa (dharamchakra)
The spot is believed to be exactly the place where the Buddha delivered his second sermon on anattalakana sutta to his five deseiples. The monument is considered to be the most important and sacred among the structures at sarnath. This solid cylindrical tower, 28.5m. In height of 42.06m. Including the foundation.
Dharamarajika stup
This stup was built by ashok and represent one of the light " divine tower" all of them having reference to certain leading events is the life of Buddha. It has been revealed that the dharamarajika stup was inlarge six times in secession.
4. Mulagandha kutivihar
This monument, aquaria on plane measuring 18.29m. Along each side, represents the main shrine where the Buddha used to sit in meditation for three months during the rainy season.
Ashok’s lion-pillar
The lion pillar sarnath is the finest and the most famous of all examples of mauryan art. Discovered in 1905, this consists of a shaft made of a piece of stone. Presently only 2.03m. Height in inscribed stump of the original ashokan column of the size once 15025m. This was surmounted by the famous lion-capital with a crowning dharamchakra fitted above the heads of four lions on a contrivance into a grooved in the center.
Kanaganahalli is about 3 km from Sannati. An important Buddhist site, the place where an ancient Buddhist Mahastupa site found. It is on the left bank of the Bhima river[1] in Chitapur taluk, Gulbarga District in North Karnataka, Karnataka, India. Nalwar is the nearest Railway station about 19 km from Kanaganahalli. The Buddhist site about 2.5 km from Chandrala Parameshwari temple of Sannati.
History
The remains of the excavations site at Kanaganahalli can be dated from 1st cent B.C. to 3rd Cent. A.D.
In circa 1st century B.C the stupa at Kanganhalli was constructed , as per the inscriptions referred to as Hama Chaitya and it was patronized by the Hinayana and Mahayana people during 3rd-4th century A.D. In the pre-Christian times with the advent of Shatavahana, theAmaravati School of Art made deep impact on the sculptural and architectural forms of Kanaganahalli region. This was indeed a period of great artistic efflorescence that gave theMaha chaitya here the most impressive form unsurpassed in the history of stupa architecture in the south India[2].
The sculptured panels of the medhi are distinctly of native creation. The skill of making two dimensional sculptures and the carving of typical animal motifs are also of indigenous nature. Exhibit a transition phase between the early phase of Amaravati sculptural art and the elaborately sculptured panels of Nagarjunakonda with the sculptural panels found at Kanaganahalli stupa.
The volumes of their improvement over their Amaravati counterparts. The mastery of the artist of Kanganhalli in carving the geometric patterns, floral motifs, dress and ornamentation of the contemporary times and the concept of composition of the subject matter in the large sculptured panels.
The Kanaganahalli Maha Stupa is the veritable gallery of eminent rulers like King Ashoka and the Shatavahana rulers (Simuka, Pulumavi) are immortalized by depicting their portraits at Kanaganahalli.
Unlike the torana of Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh, portrait of emperor Ashoka is said to have depicted there is inscription found at Kanaganahalli.
At Kanganhalli up to the anda portion of the stupa is available, although majority of the architectural members and the sculptural panels are dislodged from the original position.
ASI Excavation Site
Kanaganahalli is the excavation site of the Archaeological Survey of India[3].
Excavation during 1994 to 1998
- During the excavations (1994 to 1998) at Kanaganahalli, found remains of a massive Stupa, many brick built structures in the form of Chaityagriha and votive stupas were brought to light.
- During the excavations many architectural members of the stupa found like fragments of sculptured veneering slabs, members of railings, pillars , capitals, Buddha padas , sculptures of yaksha and four images of Buddha many more.
- The sculptured panels depicts various Jataka stories and life of Lord Buddha
and portrait of many Shatavahana king.
Inscriptions
More than 50 inscriptions were discovered from the excavations site. The very important discovery was the sculpture of Maurya emperorAshoka.
Excavation during 2000 to 2002
- During the excavations (2000 to 2002) found bare ruined remnants of a number of brick built structures like paved and sheltered passages connecting them. Also found part of a possible monastic complex to the north west of the main stupa.
- Antiquities such as lead coins bear names of Shatavahana king like Satakarni, Pulumavi and Yajnasri.
- The most important finding of the excavation include a stone sculptured slab bearing the name raya Ashoka.
International Buddhist Centre
An important Buddhist site, Governament of Karnataka and ASI Planning to develop Kanaganahalli ( and Sannati) as International Buddhist Centre[4].
Governament of Karnataka had constituted Sannati Development Authority and had appointed senior IAS official S.M. Jamdhar as its special officer.
apilavastu and Lumbini
Siddhartha Gautama, the future Buddha, was born at Lumbini near the Shakyan capital of Kapilavastu in the southern region of Nepal known as the terai. The 5th-century Chinese pilgrim Fa-hsien described Kapilavastu as a "great scene of empty desolation", populated by a few monks, a score or two of families and dangerous animals such as lions and white elephants. Fa-hsien none the less visited well-known sites, including the Shakyan palace, the place where the child bodhisattva's identifying marks were discovered, and, east of the city, the garden of Lumbini where the future Buddha's mother bathed and gave birth. Mounds, stupas and other ruins testified to previous Buddhist institutional prosperity. Buddhist tradition tells that the emperor Ashoka visited Nepal in the 3rd century BC and erected a stupa and an inscribed column at Lumbini. Recent excavations have uncovered evidence of stupas, monastic dwellings and the well-preserved structure of the bathing-pool. The Ashokan column -rediscovered in 1896 but snapped in half by a lightning bolt - may also be seen at Lumbini. Theravada and Tibetan monasteries have been built in the past two decades near Lumbini, re-establishing the site as an important, although geographically remote, devotional centre.
• Svayambhunath and Bodhnath (Kathmandu)
To commemorate his missionary visit, the emperor Ashoka is said to have built innumerable stupas in Nepal. Two surviving examples, much restored, may derive from the Ashokan period. These are the remarkable Svayambhunath and Bodhnath stupas in Kathmandu. Both stupas share unique Nepalese architectural features. Surmounting the conventional dome is a "steeple" raised on thirteen diminishing tiers to symbolize the thirteen Buddhist heavens. Yet more striking is the design of the square base (harmika) from which the tiers rise. The harmika is gilded, and a face gazes with immense eyes of inlaid metal and ivory from each side. One explanation for this unique Nepalese iconography is that the eyes suggest a solar cult expressed on some Hindu temples by "sun-faces". A second idea is that the temple represents the "Primal man" (mahapurusha) of early Hinduism. Buddhist theory would suggest that the eyes are a sign of the "all-seeing" Buddha. Visitors are certainly struck by the way in which the eyes follow them as they move round the stupa precincts.
Sanchi, variously known as Kakanaya, Kakanava, Kakanadabota and Bota-Sriparvata in ancient times, has a singular distinction of having remarkable specimen of Buddhist art and architecture right from the early Mauryan period (c. third century BC to twelfth century AD). Sanchi is famous in the world for stupas, monolithic Asokan pillar, temples, monasteries and sculptural wealth.
It was Emperor Asoka who laid the foundations of a religious centre at Sanchi fascinated probably by the location of the hill or because of his Queen Devi, who was the daughter of a merchant of Vidisha. He erected the Great Stupa (Stupa 1) here after redistribution of mortal remains of Lord Buddha for erecting several stupas all over the country in order to spread Buddhism. This stupa was originally a low structure of brick, half the diameter of the present edifice hemispherical in shape with raised terraces at the base. It was enclosed by a wooden railing and a stone umbrella at the top. This Great Stupa served as a nucleus to the large Buddhist establishment during the later period.
During Sunga times, several edifices were raised at Sanchi and its surrounding hills. The Asokan stupa was enlarged and faced with stones and decorated with balustrades, staircases and a harmika on the top.
In the first century BC the Andhra-Satavahanas, who had extended their sway over the eastern Malwa, caused the elaborately carved gateways to Stupa 1. The Great Stupa of Sanchi displays an austere grandeur and the exquisite carvings of the doorway depict in detail the significant episodes and miracles from Lord Buddha’s life and events depicted in the Buddhist Jataka stories.
From the second to fourth century AD Sanchi and Vidisha came under the Kushanas and Kshatrapas and subsequently passed on to the hands of the Guptas. During the Gupta period some temples were also built and sculptures were added displaying the classical grace and simplicity of the era. Further, statues of Lord Buddha seated in the canopies facing the four entrances of the Great Stupa were also added. Sanchi also flourished during the 7th – 12th centuries A.D. when shrines and monasteries were continued to be added. Thus Sanchi displays harmonious co-existence of Hindu and Buddhist faiths.
Since the fourteenth century Sanchi remained deserted and uncared for till 1818 when General Taylor rediscovered the site. Sir John Marshall established an archaeological museum in 1919, which was later transformed into the present site museum at Sanchi.
Presently under an UNESCO project Sanchi and Satdhara, a Buddhist site, 10 km south-east of Sanchi, is being further excavated, conserved and environmentally developed.
Nagging wife, traffic jam, scorching heat , irritated boss and meagre income..................the list of problems in the life of a common man is limitless. However Buddhism is one such faith that offers us with the mantra, which ones chanted works as a balm and healer of all the wounds which life gives us at some time or the other. Find solace in Sanchi........
Sanchi lies to the north - east of Bhopal. It sits upon a hill and is a mute witness to a glorious era of Buddhism in India spanning its efflorescence to its decadence. The place has a distinction of having remarkable specimen of Buddhist art and architecture which dates back to the early Mauryan period. The place is famous for the monolithic pillars, palaces, temples, stupas and monasteries. It is the oldest Buddhist sanctuary in existence and was a major Buddhist centre in India until 12 th century AD. Emperor Asoka laid the foundations of a religious centre in Sanchi. There are total 50 monuments at Sanchi.
Kailashnath Temple:
Kailashnath Temple is a delightful 8th century shrine, situated at Ellora, near Aurangabad, in Maharashtra. Built by Krishna I of the Rashtrakutas, it stands as a fine specimen of the Rashtrakuta architecture. It is one of the world's largest monolithic structures formed by a free-standing temple flanked by huge elephants, pillars, podiums, a gateway, two-storied halls and the main shrine within - all carved from one solid piece of rock.
The temple resembles the Chalukya temples at Pattadakkal but is far more refined in its architecture and design.
The gateway of the temple is double storied. The temple has four parts - the body of the temple, the entrance gate, the Nandi shrine and a group of five shrines surrounding the courtyard. There are many sculptural designs that depict events from the epic Ramayana and Mahabharata.
The main body of the temple stands on a high plinth which is beautifully carved with sculptures of elephants and lions. The larger halls of the temples are garnished with images of Brahmanical Gods. The tower of the temple, in three diminishing tiers, is crowned by a cupola.
Around the base of the tower there are shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesh, Rudra, Goddess Parvati, Chandra and Saptamatri.
SANCHI STUPA
Emperor Asoka (273-236 B.C.) built stupas in Buddha's honour at many places in India. Stupas at Sanchi are the most magnificent structures of ancient India. UNESCO has included them as one of the heritage sites of the world. Stupas are large hemispherical domes, containing a central chamber, in which the relics of the Buddha were placed. Sanchi stupas trace the development of the Buddhist architecture and sculpture at the same location beginning from the 3rd century B.C. to the 12th century A.D.
Asoka when he was a governor married Devi, the daughter of a respected citizen of Vidisha, a town 10 km from the Sanchi hill. Prince Mahendra visited Sanchi with his mother before leaving for the island of Lanka for taking Buddhism there. Emperor Asoka had put up at Sanchi a pillar edict and a stupa containing relics of the Buddha. Addition of new stupas and expressions in stone of legends around the life of the Buddha and the monastic activities at the Sanchi hill continued under several dynasties for over fifteen hundred years. Also, the Brahmi script could be deciphered from the similarities in inscriptions carved at different places in the main stupa.
Sanchi stupas are noteworthy for their gateways as they contain ornamented depiction of incidents from the life of the Buddha and his previous incarnations as Bodhisattvas described in Jataka tales. Sculptors belonging to different times tried to depict the same story by repeating figures. The Buddha has been shown symbolically in the form of tree or through other inanimate figures. One of the sects of Buddhism opposed depiction of the Buddha by a human figure.
The top of the Asoka pillar, which comprises of four lions, has been kept in the museum maintained by the Department of Archaeology. The size and the weight of the pillar point to advanced construction technology that was existent at the time of Asoka. It must have been an incredible feat of engineering to bring the stone for carving the pillar from the mine to Sanchi and installing it up the hill.
Rampurva Bull Capital:
Rampurva Bull Capital is a magnificent piece of Architecture of the Ashokan Age. It was built by Ashoka, and has a bull on the top of the pillar, it is co related to the Sarnath pillar. These two are the evidence of the great architecture durin the Ashoka reign They were built during the Reign of Ashoka (Asoka) ( 262-232 BCE).
Ajanta Caves
Ajanta Caves in Maharashtra, India are rock-cut cave monuments dating back to the second century BCE and containing paintings and sculpture considered to be masterpieces of both "Buddhist religious art"[1] and "universal pictorial art."[2] The caves are located just outside the village of Ajinṭhā in Aurangabad District in the Indian state of Maharashtra (N. lat. 20 deg. 30' by E. long. 75 deg. 40'). Since 1983, the Ajanta Caves have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The monastic complex of Ajanta consists of several viharas (monastic halls of residence) and chaitya-grihas (stupa monument halls) cut into the mountain scarp in two phases. The first phase is mistakenly called the Hinayana phase (referring to the Lesser Vehicle tradition of Buddhism, when the Buddha was revered symbolically). Actually, Hinayana – a derogative term for Sthaviravada – does not object to Buddha statues. At Ajanta, cave numbers 9, 10, 12, 13, and 15A (the last one was re-discovered in 1956, and is still not officially numbered) were excavated during this phase. These excavations have enshrined the Buddha in the form of the stupa, or mound. The second phase of excavation started on the site after a lull of over three centuries. This phase is often inappropriately called the Mahayana phase (referring to the Greater Vehicle tradition of Buddhism, which is less strict and encourages direct cow depiction of the Buddha through paintings and carvings). Some prefer to call this phase the Vakataka phase after the ruling dynasty of the house of the Vakatakas of the Vatsagulma branch. The dating of the second phase has been debated among scholars. In recent years a consensus seems to be converging on 5th-century dates for all the Mahayana phase caves. According to Walter M. Spink, a leading Ajantologist, all the Mahayana excavations were carried out from 462 to 480 CE. The caves created during the Mahayana phase are the ones numbered 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, and 29. Cave 8 was long thought to be a Hinayāna cave, however current research shows that it is in fact a Mahayana cave.
There were two chaitya-grihas excavated in the Hinayana phase that are caves 9 and 10. Caves 12, 13, and 15A of this phase are vihāras. There were three chaitya-grihas excavated in the Vakataka or Mahayana phase that are caves 19, 26, and 29. The last cave was abandoned soon after its beginning. The rest of the excavations are viharas: caves 1-3, 5-8, 11, 14-18, 20-25, and 27-28.
The viharas are of various sizes the maximum being about 52 feet. They are often square-shaped. Their excavation exhibits a great variety, some with simple facade, others ornate; some have a porch and others do not. The hall was an essential element of a viharas. In the Vakataka phase, early viharas were not intended to have shrines because they were purely meant to be halls of residence and congregation. Later, shrines were introduced in them in the back walls, which became a norm. The shrines were made to house the central object of reverence that is the image of the Buddha often seated in the dharmachakrapravartana mudra (the gesture of teaching). In the caves with latest features, we find subsidiary shrines added on the side walls, porch or the front-court. The facades of many vihāras are decorated with carvings, and walls and ceilings were often covered with paintings.
Changes in Buddhist thought in the 1st century BCE had made it possible for the Buddha to be deified and consequently the image of the Buddha as a focus of worship became popular marking the arrival of the Mahāyāna (the Greater Vehicle) sect.
In the past, scholars divided the caves in three groups, but this is now discredited in light of fresh evidence and research. This theory of dating believed that the oldest group of caves dated from 200 BCE to CE 200, the second group belonged, approximately, to the 6th, and the third group to the 7th century.
Ellora
Ellora is an ancient village 30 km (18.6 miles) from the city of Aurangabad in the Indian state of Maharashtra. Famous for its monumental caves, Ellora is a World Heritage Site.
Ellora represents the epitome of Indian rock cut architecture.[1] The 35 "caves" – actually structures excavated out of the vertical face of the Charanandri hills – comprised of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain cave temples and monasteries, were built between the 5th century and 10th century. The 12 Buddhist (caves 1-12), 17 Hindu (caves 13-29) and 5 Jain caves (caves 30-34), built in proximity, demonstrate the religious tolerance prevalent during this period of Indian history.
The Buddhist caves were the earliest structures, created between the fifth and seventh centuries. These consist mostly of viharas or monasteries: large, multi-storeyed buildings carved into the mountain face, including living quarters, sleeping quarters, kitchens, and other rooms.
Some of these monastery caves have shrines including carvings of Buddha, bodhisattvas and saints. In many of these caves, sculptors had endeavoured to give the stone the look of wood.
Most famous of the Buddhist caves is cave 10, a chaitya hall (chandrashala) or 'Vishwakarma cave', popularly known as the "Carpenter's Cave". Beyond its multi-storeyed entry is a cathedral-like stupa hall also known as chaitya, whose ceiling has been carved to give the impression of wooden beams. At the heart of this cave is a 15 foot statue of Buddha seated in a preaching pose.
The Hindu caves were constructed in the beginning of the 7th century and represents a different style of creative vision and execution skills. These temples were carved from top to down. Some were of such complexity that they required several generations of planning and coordination to complete.
Cave 16, called The Kailasa or Kailasanatha Temple, is the unrivalled centerpiece of Ellora. This gargantuan structure – designed to recall Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva – looks like a freestanding, multi-storeyed temple complex, but it was carved out of one single rock, and covers an area double the size of Parthenon in Athens.
All the carvings are done in more than one level. A two-storeyed gateway opens to reveal a U-shaped courtyard. The courtyard is edged by columned galleries three storeys high. The galleries are punctuated by huge sculpted panels, and alcoves containing enormous sculptures of a variety of deities. Originally flying bridges of living stone connected these galleries to central temple structures, but these have fallen.
Within the courtyard are two structures. As is traditional in Shiva temples, an image of the sacred bull Nandi fronts the central temple housing the lingam. In Cave 16, the Nandi Mandap and main Shiva temple are each about 7 meters high, and built on two stories. The lower stories of the Nandi Mandap are both solid structures, decorated with elaborate illustrative carvings. The base of the temple has been carved to suggest that elephants are holding the structure aloft.
A living rock bridge connects the Nandi Mandap to the porch of the temple. The temple itself is tall pyramidic structure reminiscent of a South Indian temple. The shrine – complete with pillars, windows, inner and outer rooms, gathering halls, and an enormous lingam at its heart – carved from living stone, is carved with niches, plasters, windows as well as images of deities, mithunas (****** male and female figures) and other figures. Most of the deities at the left of the entrance are Shaivaite (followers of Lord Shiva) while on the right hand side the deities are Vaishnavaites (followers of Lord Vishnu).
There are two Dhvajastambhas (pillars with the flagstaff) in the courtyard. The grand sculpture of Ravana attempting to lift Mount Kailasa, the abode of Lord Shiva, with his full might is a landmark in Indian art.
Buddhist sites:
Kapilvastu
The capital city of the Sakya clan, and one of the earliest republics, it was in Kapilavastu's opulent environs, that the holy soul of prince Siddarth (Gautam Buddha) spent his childhood.
Bodhgaya
Reckoned as the most important Buddhist pilgrimage center, is the place where Lord Sakyamuni (Gautam Buddha) entered into meditation after being moved by the sufferings of mankind.
Sarnath
The blessed locale where more than 2,500 years ago Buddha chose to deliver his first sermon, after attaining Nirvana. The five disciples who had followed him were surprised to see the mesmerizing glowing countenance of Buddha, who convinced them and delivered his first sermon before them, now termed Dharamachakra Pravartan.
Kaushambi
Was visited by Buddha in the 6th and 9th years after his enlightenment. He delivered several sermons here, elevating it to a center of learning for Buddhists. Today one can see the ruins of an Ashokan Pillar, an old fort and the Ghositaram Monastery.
Kushinagar
It was here that the Tathagata, the reciter of truth, breathed his last with the last words, "behold now, brethren, I exhort you, saying , decay is inherent in all component things ! Work out your salvation with diligence !". A temple dedicated to the event - the Mahaparinirvana temple today stands amidst a serene 'sal' grove ...... as if still reminiscing the great demise.
Ajanta Caves
The Ajanta caves consist of 30 Caves including the unfinished ones, dating back from 200 BC to 250 AD. These caves are situated 104 kms from Aurangabad and 52 kms from Jalgaon Railway Station. The caves are cut from the volcanic lava of the Deccan in the forest ravines of the Sahyadri Hills and are set in beautiful sylvan surroundings.
Sravasti
The capital of the ancient kingdom of Kosala, has the honor for sheltering Buddha for 24 rainy seasons in the Jetvana Gardens.
Vaishali
Vaishali, believed to be the first republic of the world, having an elected body of representatives, holds special significance for Buddhist devotees. At Kolhua, Lord Buddha delivered his last sermon, hinting at his impending departure from the mortal world. Later, Emperor Ashoka erected a huge pillar to commemorate the spot of the last sermon.
Sankisa
It is believed to be the place where Buddha, along with Bramha and Devraj Indra descended after giving sermons to his mother in heaven.
Sanchi
Sanchi is a serene hill crowned by a group of stupas, monasteries, temples and pillars dating from 3rd century BC to 12th century AD. The glory that was Sanchi, an ancient place of pilgrimage, can still be experienced in its complex structures where many Buddhist legends found expression in the rich sculpture.
Orissa
The recent findings from excavations and the identifications of a number of sites with Buddhist remains open up a new vista in the field of Buddhist Tourism in Orissa. Dhauli hill on the bank of the river Daya is a little away from the main road to Puri/Konark from Bhubaneswar. Ashoka changed his mind in favor of spiritual conquests in preference to war exploits after the Kalinga war which was fought here in the 3rd century B.C. This place motivated the Kalinga Nippon-Buddha Sangha to establish a peace pagoda or Shanti Stupa at Dhauli along with the construction of a monastery called Saddharma Vihar Lalitagiri, the earliest Buddhist complex of 1st century A.D. has a huge brick monastery, the remains of a Chaitya hall, a number of votive stupas and a renovated stone stupa at the apex of a small rugged sand stone hill dominates the rural greenery around. At Ratnagiri, excavations revealed the establishment of a Buddhist center from the time of Narasimha Gupta Baladitya (first half of the sixth century A.D.). At Udaygiri excavations brought to light a sprawling complex of brick monastery with a number of Buddhist sculptures. Infact the entire area is found located at the foothills of a large hill acting as the backdrop of the area.
Shanti Stupa, Orrisa
Tabo
A Gompa was founded in 996 AD. (A Tibetan year of the fire Ape) and the initiative is said to belong to the great teacher Rinchensang Po also known as Mahaguru Ratnabhadra. In June -July 1996, Tabo celebrated a millennium of its glorious existence. With breathtaking murals and stucco images, Tabo is often called "The Ajanta of the Himalayas". And here is art that above all, is born of religion and deep faith. The Tabo monastery at a height of 3050mts is a complex that holds 9 temples, 23 chortens a monks chamber and an extension that houses the nun s chamber. This core area bounded by an earthen wall and encloses an area of 6300sq.m. Just short of the complex are the contemporary monastic structures .On the sheer cliff face above the enclave are a series of cave which were used as dwelling units by the monks. And includes an assembly hall. Here again, dim traces of the painting that once adorned the rock face are visible.
Nalanda
90 kms south of Patna, literally means the place that confers the lotus. It was one of the oldest universities of the world. It has nine million books, ten thousand students, two thousand teachers and was a center of great learning which reached its zenith between 5th and 12th Century A.D. Both Lord Buddha and Lord Mahavira visited this place. Emperor Ashoka built a Vihara, while Emperor Harshvardhan donated a 26 mtr. High copper image of Buddha and Emperor Kumar Gupta built a college of fine arts. In 1951, an International Center for Buddhist Studies was established in Nalanda. Nava Nalanda Vihar, 2 kms from here, is a similar institution.
Nalanda University
Rajgir
Rajgir , meaning " the Royal Palace" ,(Raja Griha) lies 12 kms south of Patna. Rajgir is a site of great sanctity and significance for Buddhists. The Gridhakuta Hill, in Rajgir, was the seat from where Buddha delivered many of his sermons. It was here that the teachings of Buddha were recorded in writing for the first time. An aerial ropeway takes visitors up the hill where the Japanese have built a beautiful Stupa. Many sites of. Historical and archaeological significance surrounds the holy city of Rajgir. Bimbisara Jail reminds one of the devoted Mauryan King Bimbisara (5th-6th Century B.C.) who, being a Buddhist, chose this as a place to spend his last days. From here he could see Buddha climbing up the Grihakuta Hill to do his meditation. Ajatashatru's Fort is another place of tourist attraction. The sculpture, which depicts the 'Parinirvana' or the 'great cessation' of Buddha, is another monument of artistic and historical importance. It shows the Buddha lying on his right side with the right forearm resting under his head to commemorate the final salvation or 'Mukti', of the great founder of the Buddhist Faith. Other prominent sites of importance at Rajgir include Saptdhara, the hot springs which supposedly have healing powers; Venuvan Vihara, the residence built by the king Bimbisara for Buddha; Jivaka's Mango grove, residence of an ardent Buddhist follower, Jivak who was a surgeon; and the Karanda Tank, bathing site of Lord Buddha. Also the first Buddhist Council was convened here, at the Saptaparni Cave, after the Mahaparinirvana of Buddha. Patna lies 102 kms from here and 34 kms from here is Gaya.
Sikkim
Sikkim is situated in the Eastern Himalayas, along the borders of Bhutan (East). Tibet (North), Nepal (West) and West Bengal (South). Its capital, Gangtok has a lot to see, specially the Research Institute of Tibetology, a World center for the study of Buddhist philosophy& religion and has a rare collection of Thankas, statues and over 200 Buddhist icons. 24kms away, you approach the Rumtek Monastery which houses among the most unique art objects in the world. 3 kms from Gangtok is the Enchey Monastery built almost 200 years ago and was blessed by the great tantric master Lama Druptab Karpa.
Tawang
Not very far from Bomdila in Arunachal Pradesh lies the Tawang Headquarters, a beautiful district in the center of which emerges the walled and fortified Tawang Monastery. The monastery overlooks the valley and is surrounded by mountains which seem to be guarding the valley and its inhabitants. Over 500 Lamas live in its 65 residential buildings. One can witness a superb collection of ancient scriptures, images, Thankas and a 8mtr. High gilded image of Buddha.The monastery is locally known as Gompa, like any other and is believed to be 400 years old.
Ladakh
Popularly known as "Hermit Kingdom". Ladakh is a land of snow carved peaks ,translucent Lakes ,barren terrain and mystic culture .Quite like Tibet it has a great Buddhist tradition which is evident from the high monk to people ratio of 1:8.It has about 13 major Gompas(monasteries) of which HEMIS is considered the Gompa Of Gompas.It has the patronage of the Royal Family. It is the most important monastery of Ladakh with a concealed entrance, a huge courtyard flanked by two big temples. In the month of June, the famous "Hemis festival" is held, when a large numbers of tourist visit it. Alchi ,a little village 70 km from Leh in Jammu & Kashmir ,is known as a jewel among the religious sites in Ladakh. Abandoned centuries ago this monastery is lovingly maintained by the monks at Likir, the nearest functioning Gompa. It is popularly known as Chos-kar (religious enclave) and comprises of 5 temples which are perhaps the richest in their collection of painting s and images in the Du -Khang (the Assembly Hall), and the three storied Sum-Tsek. Its murals dating back to the 11th and 12th Centuries, pre date the Tibetan style of painting which is found in all other Gompas. Some of them are the reminiscent of the painting of the far off Ajanta Caves and are presumed to be the almost the sole survivor of the Buddhist style, currently in Kashmir during the first millenium AD.
Dating back to the 2nd Century BC, the monuments at Karla are at a distance of 11 km from Lonavala and just off the Mumbai-Pune road. The magnificent Chaitya hall at Karla is the largest (124ft x 46.5ft x 45ft) and most evolved example of its class. Three important features of the interior of the hall are columns or pillars, the roof vault and the great sun windows. There are 37 columns in all, of which 30 have interesting capitals showing prosperous men and women riding elephants and horses yet bowing in humility to the Great Buddha. The vaulted roof has wooden supports. This is the only place in India where 2000-year-old woodwork can be seen. At the far end of the hall stands a stupa, above which is held an umbrella, a symbol of royalty. The whole system of lighting depends on the enormous sun windows through which cleverly diffused light with its light and shadows gives a great sense of solemnity.
Pillar lined interiors of Karla Caves
Kanheri Caves
Situated 42 Kms north of Mumbai, near Borivili, the kanheri caves were once protected by a dense jungle. The Caves are set in the heart of the Borivili National Park. There are 109 caves dating from 1st century BC to 9th Century AD, each connected with a flight os steps. The most important one is the Cave No.3 of the 6th century which has the last of the excavated Chaitya Hall of the Hinayana Order. It has 34 pillars and is like a colonnaded hall 28 mtrs.x13 mtr. in dimension. The encircle a 5mtrs. high Dagoba or stupa and have carvings depicting elephants kneeling and worshipping the stupa. The other important caves are, Cave 11, Durbar Hall or the Assembly Hall with a statue of the Buddha occupying the central place as in the case of idols in Hindu temples and also a number of cells for Buddhist monks. Cave 34 is a dark cell and has paintings of the Buddha on the ceiling. Cave 41 has, besides other sculptures, a figure of the eleven headed Avalokieshvara. Cave 67 is a big cell, with the figure of Avalokiteshwara as savior flanked by two female figures in the verandah. There are also images of the Buddha depicting the miracle of Sravasti.
Junnar Caves
The birth place of the Maratha chieftain Chhatrapati Shivaji, is 177 kms from Mumbai on the Mumbai-Aurangabad route. The hills surrounding the plains of Junnar are honeycombed with a cluster of Buddhist caves, which are divided into three distinct groups, which are divided into three distinct groups. These caves belongs to the period 2nd Century BC to 3rd century AD. 5 Kms to the west are the TULIJA lENA Group which has a circular dome ceiling in the Chaitya Hall (Cave No. 3.). The second group of caves are located 1.5 Kms south of the town, towards the Manmodi Hills. It has a well preserved facade. The third group, Ganesh Lena Group is located 4 kms south of Junnar. There are a large number of small cells and viharas in the group, the principal being the Chaitya cave No. 6 and the vihara now known as the Ganesh Lena.
Bhaja Caves
Bhaja has 18 caves belonging to the 2nd century B.C. Cave No. 12 is the largest and has a fine stilted vault. The last cave to the south has a excellent sculptures including that of the famous 'Dancing Couple'. Bhaja caves are located 12 kms from Lonavala and can be reached by an uphill climb of half-hour from the Malavali Railway Station on the Mumbai-Lonavala-Pune section of the central Railway.
Nagarjuna Konda
Nagarjuna Sagar, earlier called vijaypuri in ancient times, is an important Buddhist site located 150 kms from Hydrabad in Andhra Pradesh. It is named after the Buddhist saint acharya Nagarjuna and reveals one of the most outstanding Buddhist civilizations of the 3rd Century A.D. a replica of the excavated site has been created and carefully preserved on an island known as Nagarjuna Konda. The excavations have brought to light the Mahachaitya, the most sacred of the Stupas. An inscription in the Brahmi characters states that the relics of Buddha lie within the Mahachaitya while others have revealed the existence of a Vihara and also an Aswamedha (sacrificial alter), besides tools from the Paleolithic and Neolithic ages
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