Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ratnagiri Buddhist Heritage Site in Odisha
Why in the News?
On December 1, 2024, a team of archaeologists, students, and laborers began excavation at the Ratnagiri Buddhist Heritage Site in Jajpur, Odisha.
About the Ratnagiri Buddhist Heritage Site
- Located in Jajpur district, Odisha, Ratnagiri is part of the “Diamond Triangle” along with Udayagiri and Lalitgiri.
- It flourished as a Vajrayana Buddhist center from the 5th to 13th century AD.
- It was first reported in 1906, with excavations conducted from 1958-1961 by Debala Mitra.
- It is identified as ‘Sri Ratnagiri Mahavihara Arya Bhikshu Sangha’ through inscriptions.
Key Findings at the Site:
- Largest Buddha Head in Odisha: 1.4 meters tall, made of Khondalite stone, featuring intricate carvings.
- Monolithic Elephant Sculpture: Likely part of an ancient shrine complex.
- Hundreds of Votive Stupas: Used for spiritual offerings, reflecting Vajrayana Buddhist traditions.
- Sanskrit Inscriptions in Kutila Script: Provide insights into monastic teachings and rituals.
- Stone Tablets and Masonry Structures: Indicate large, organized monastic settlements.
- Lion Pedestal (Simhasana) and Buddhist Deities: Includes Amoghasiddhi, Ratnasambhava, Akshobhya, Amitabha, Tara, Marici, Padmapani, Cunda.
- Artefacts Used in Local Villages: Repurposed as decorations, Tulsi bases, and construction materials.
PYQ:[2014] With reference to Buddhist history, tradition and culture in India, consider the following pairs : Famous shrine: Location
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched? (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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