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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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Hello from Coorg!

Good morning from Coorg! We arrived here yesterday, expecting the sharp summer heat, but were welcomed by rains instead!





We are staying at the Club Mahindra Virajpet property...




I was woken this morning by the chirping of Birds, and have spent the morning armchair birdwatching.... ThisRed Whiskered Bulbul is a common sight, even at home, but seeing them in peace without having to think of the morning chores, is a pleasure !



And this White Browed wagtail posed so beautifully for me!


That's all for now.... Hope to show you more of Coorg, and the rest of my trip if the internet co-operates!

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Comments

  1. ArtiMay 2, 2014 at 1:00 PM

    Looks pristine! Have a great trip, Anu!

    ReplyDelete
  2. HaddockMay 4, 2014 at 1:45 PM

    If there are birds then I must make a visit. Nice peaceful place.

    ReplyDelete

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