The epic Kalinga War won by Emperor Ashoka was one of the bloodiest wars ever fought in the subcontinent. The devastating consequences of the war had a profound impact on the emperor, and he later adopted Buddhism, and promoted it in what became the state of Odisha. He built several Buddhist monasteries and settlements, which are now recognised as important Buddhist sites.
These beautiful remnants of Odisha's rich Buddhist history remain untouched by modernity, on the banks of the river Daya. Buddhism and the cultural history of Odisha had a flourishing symbiotic relationship; both influenced each other to a great extent and even contributed a lot to the growth of the religion in South Asia.
With more than two hundred historical landmarks, including forts and Buddha sculptures, Odisha is a beloved destination for Buddhist pilgrims and visitors. Among the important locations are the Chandragiri Buddhist monastery, Ratnagiri monastery, Udaygiri Buddhist complex, Kuruma Buddhist heritage site, Lalitagiri Buddhist complex, Dhauli Shanti stupa, and the Padmasambhava Mahavihara monastery. Buddhism has undoubtedly contributed significantly to the architectural, historical and cultural mosaic of Odisha.
Odisha has a lot to offer for those who wish to travel and discover lesser-known Buddhist monuments. Here are a few highly recommended places:
1) The Diamond Triangle: Lalitagiri, Ratnagiri and Udaygiri
The Diamond Triangle, located about 100km away from Bhubaneswar, comprises three closely situated heritage sites: Lalitagiri in Cuttack district, and Ratnagiri and Udaygiri in Jajpur.
l Lalitagiri: The oldest of the three, hosts the ruins of a monastery built in the 1st century AD. The monastery's remnants include the main stupa (maha stupa), multiple votive stupas, and prayer rooms, suggesting that it served as a home for both the Mahayana and Hinayana sect. A variety of artefacts, including statues of Lord Buddha, Tara, and Jambhala, are on display at the museum.
l Ratnagiri: This monastery, long considered a rival to the ancient Nalanda, is one of the best-excavated sites in Odisha. It is home to a maha stupa, votive stupas, commemorative stupas, and various Buddha images. Another highlight is the monastery's ornately carved entry gate.
l Udaygiri: This site has a maha stupa and the ruins of two monasteries. It is close to Lalitagiri and is home to a few rather brilliant sculptures and prayer halls. One can also admire the great lion statue at the foot of the hill, and if lucky, even spot a few native birds nearby.
2) Shanti Stupa, Dhauligiri - The Peace Pagoda
About seven kilometres on the road from Bhubaneswar to Puri is Dhauligiri, home of the shanti stupa. The word shanti means peace. This stupa was erected on the spot where the Kalinga War ended and King Ashoka adopted Buddhism.
King Ashoka laid the foundation for many stupas, chaityas, and pillars, and is also credited with issuing edicts encouraging happiness, contentment, and peace. These rock edicts made by Emperor Ashoka can be found here. Another highlight here is a rock-cut elephant, which is considered to be the earliest Buddhist sculpture in Odisha. The footsteps of the Buddha and the Bodhi tree are depicted on stone panels that form the stupa's dome. There is also an image of Ashoka laying down his sword before Lord Buddha, signifying his total renunciation of violence.
A short distance away is the Dhabaleswar Temple, which was renovated in 1972. It is frequented by both Hindus and Buddhists. Dhauligiri is a must-visit for those who wish to explore more of Odisha's religious and cultural history.
3) Jirang Monastery
Jirang is known as the little Tibet of Odisha; it has been a home for the Tibetan people since the 1960s. When the first batch of Tibetan settlers arrived seeking refuge on May 1, 1963, Chandragiri was designated as camp number four.
Since then, they have not only settled in Chandragiri, but also in the nearby camps at Labarasingh, Mahendragarh, and Tankilipadar (all of which are situated within a 5km-radius of Chandragiri) They have not only preserved their culture but also integrated themselves seamlessly into the threads of secular and multicultural India. The Tibetans have named this place "Phuntsokling", which means land of plenty and happiness.
Almost 266km away from Bhubaneswar, in Chandragiri, is the Padmasambhava monastery also known as the Jirang monastery. It is the largest monastery in eastern India and was inaugurated by His Holiness The Dalai Lama in 2010. Buddhist monks from all over India come to study at the monastery. A 23ft-tall idol of the Buddha, a 1,000-armed and 1,000-eyed Mahendragad's Avalokiteswara statue, and a small waterfall are the major landmarks here.
Odisha’s vibrant historical and cultural past is a treasure trove for all those who want to find tranquil places with a million stories to tell. Therefore next time you plan on going somewhere on a vacation or on a soul-searching journey, head to Odisha. You may never know what you'll find.
For more details, visit: www.odishatourism.gov.in
To book your travel package, visit: www.bookodisha.com