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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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Beginning the New Year with a smile...

10 days into the new year, 2015 promises to be just as hectic as the last one. 2014 was a mixed bag, taking us on a roller coaster ride of emotions.I hope 2015 brings us all a lot more peace in our lives, and gives us more reasons to smile. Sharing with you all a pic clicked from my recent trip to Kolkata...



This is the head of a Bodhisattva, 2nd century C.E, from Sankisa in UP, now at the Indian Museum, Kolkata. The sculptor has so beautifully captured the inner peace and contentment behind that serene smile. May we all be blessed with the same peace and contentment this year....



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  1. NishaJanuary 10, 2015 at 10:49 PM

    Wish you a very happy and prosperous, full of smiles year, Anu.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Byłem tu. Tony Halik.January 12, 2015 at 6:51 AM

    All the best in the New Year! Lot's of travels and only good adventures!
    Joanna

    ReplyDelete
  3. CharukesiJanuary 14, 2015 at 5:00 PM

    The Bodhisattva always has a peaceful, calming smile :) have a wonderful 2015, filled with travels and adventures, Anu!

    ReplyDelete

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