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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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A cute Ganesha

This one would probably win hands down for title of 'Cutest Ganesha of the Year'! Located at the Raghuleela Mall, Vashi, this cute little Ganesha sleeping on a banyan leaf is probably the last Ganesha I will see this year before he leaves for his abode. It was an unexpected bonus, made even more special by the fact Shankar took me and Samhith to see it... the first time he has ever taken us to see one!!!!



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  1. MridulaSeptember 21, 2010 at 10:01 PM

    All your Ganesha's are lovely but this one I agree is extra cute.

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousSeptember 21, 2010 at 10:29 PM

    aaawww.. this is super cute!!

    ReplyDelete
  3. UnknownSeptember 22, 2010 at 3:39 AM

    Glad to follow your blog..if you get time you are welcome to visit my blog to....

    ReplyDelete
  4. G A R SanthoshSeptember 22, 2010 at 6:14 PM

    Really nice picture

    Please visit my blog
    http://heightsofpassion.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete

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