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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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Skywatch Friday ; Church at Mashobra



This little church sits atop a small hillock at Mashobra, surrounded by trees. It is easily reached by a short climb, but we found it almost deserted. From what I have been able to learn, this is the St. Crispin's Church, and it has been converted into a dormitory by the YMCA.

Every time we went for a walk at Mashobra, this church was what loomed over us, beckoning us to visit. Which is why, this is today's post for Skywatch Friday!

For more beautiful skies from around the world, go to the Skywatch Page. 

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  1. MridulaOctober 4, 2013 at 10:04 AM

    Now how cool it would be to stay in a dorm! Nice click.

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    Replies
    1. Anuradha ShankarOctober 4, 2013 at 1:56 PM

      Yes, Mridula! thats something to think of. I cant remember the last time i stayed in a dorm. wonder, does living in one huge room as part of a college trip count?

      Delete
  2. JoyfulOctober 4, 2013 at 11:42 AM

    Very nice. I bet it is a wonderful dorm!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anuradha ShankarOctober 4, 2013 at 1:56 PM

      Thanks Joyful. Unfortunately, we couldnt go inside, so no idea!

      Delete
  3. P.N. SubramanianOctober 5, 2013 at 11:32 AM

    Very colourful surroundings. Unfortunately it remains disfunctional

    ReplyDelete

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