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Odisha Part 11: Discovering the Jaina Heritage of Odisha at the caves of Udaygiri and Khandgiri

The Hindu and Buddhist history of Odisha , or rather, ancient Kalinga, is rather well known to everyone. Who hasn’t heard of the grand temples of Odisha – Puri, Lingaraj and Konark, or the great war of Kalinga which inspired Ashoka to convert to Buddhism? In contrast, very few know of the Jaina heritage of this region. This is quite a pity, since, just around 7 km from the city, is one of India’s most ancient inscriptions, which throws light on the Jaina heritage of Odisha. This inscription is the Hathigumpha inscription of Kharavela, in the hills of Udaygiri. Udaygiri and Khandgiri are two hills located opposite each other, and both are testaments to the rich Jaina heritage of Odisha. The caves at Udaygiri are older, while Khandgiri is relatively newer, but has lasted much longer, and continues to be a place of pilgrimage for Jains even today. These hills, from inscriptions and excavations of caves, shrines and rock beds, appear to have been a haven for Jaina monks, right from the ...
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Vendors at Chamundi Hills

Every temple has vendors outside, selling flowers and coconuts....





Outside the temple on Chamundi Hills, there were a few more, selling items made of stone and wood...



The wooden articles were common ones, but these stone figures were beautiful!



And yes, for once, I did succumb to the temptation, and bought some too!

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  1. IndraniSeptember 19, 2013 at 11:33 AM

    I always end up buying something or other even if I don't need them . :)
    Great shots!

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    1. Anuradha ShankarSeptember 19, 2013 at 12:03 PM

      Much as I am tempted, Indrani, I usually hold myself back from buying stuff thanks to lack of space, but this time i just couldnt resist those cute little elephants and the beautiful lamp!

      Delete
  2. MridulaSeptember 19, 2013 at 2:41 PM

    I usually don't buy stuff but it is good to indulge sometimes I guess?

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    1. Anuradha ShankarSeptember 22, 2013 at 9:27 AM

      Yes, Mridula. I dont usually buy much, but these were just too beautiful! plus,we are always on the lookout for stuff from across the country to keep for our annual navaratri golu. these were perfect!

      Delete

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