BUDDHIST RELIC DISCOVERY
The Archaeological Survey of India recently discovered significant Buddhist relics in Ratnagiri, Odisha, including a large Buddha head, a giant palm, an ancient wall, and inscribed artifacts. These findings, dating back to the 8th and 9th centuries AD, shed light on Odisha’s crucial role in spreading Buddhism to Southeast Asia.
Odisha’s Contribution to the Spread of Buddhism
- Role of Buddha’s Disciples: Although there is no historical record of Buddha visiting Odisha, his disciples Tapassu and Bhallika, merchant brothers from Utkala, played a key role in spreading Buddhism.
- Influence of Emperor Ashoka: The Kalinga War in 261 BCE led Ashoka to embrace Buddhism, promoting it across South and Southeast Asia.
- Hiuen Tsang’s Visit: The Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang visited Odisha in 638-639 AD and may have explored Ratnagiri, documenting the region’s culture, art, and religion.
- Major Buddhist Sites: Odisha is home to over 100 ancient Buddhist sites, including Ratnagiri, part of the “Diamond Triangle” with Udayagiri and Lalitgiri.
- Maritime Trade: Odisha’s trade connections with Bali, Java, Sumatra, and Sri Lanka contributed to the spread of Buddhism.
- Bhaumakara Dynasty Influence: During the 8th-10th centuries, Buddhism flourished under the Bhaumakara dynasty.
Key Buddhist Sects in Odisha
Mahayana Buddhism:
- Originated in the 4th Buddhist Council (72 AD) under Kanishka’s rule.
- Emphasizes Buddha’s divinity and idol worship.
- Spread to Central Asia, East Asia, and parts of Southeast Asia.
Vajrayana Buddhism:
- Known as “The Vehicle of the Thunderbolt,” it involves tantric practices and rituals.
- Predominantly practiced in Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, and Mongolia.
Hinayana Buddhism:
- Focuses on self-discipline and meditation.
- Ideal figure: Arhat, who seeks personal enlightenment.
Nalanda University: A Beacon of Buddhist Learning
- Founded: By Kumaragupta I of the Gupta Empire in the 5th century CE.
- International Prestige: Scholars from Korea, Japan, China, and other regions studied here.
- Curriculum: Included medicine, mathematics, philosophy, and Buddhism.
- Destruction: It was destroyed in 1193 by Bakhtiyar Khilji, leading to the loss of priceless manuscripts.
Spread of Buddhism to Southeast Asia
- Cultural Crossroads: Indian merchants and monks introduced Buddhism through trade routes.
- Rulers’ Adoption: Southeast Asian rulers embraced Buddhism to legitimize their authority.
- Influence of Empires: The Srivijaya Empire played a major role in propagating Buddhism.
- Fusion with Local Beliefs: Buddhism blended with indigenous traditions and Hinduism.
Global Spread of Buddhism
- Southeast Asia: Theravada Buddhism became dominant in Myanmar and Thailand by the 13th century.
- China: Buddhism influenced Chinese culture and merged with Confucianism and Daoism.
- Korea and Japan: Introduced through cultural exchanges and adapted into local traditions.
- Tibet: Vajrayana Buddhism integrated with local Bon traditions.
Important Buddhist Sites in India
Bihar:
- Bodh Gaya: Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree.
- Nalanda: An ancient center of Buddhist learning.
Uttar Pradesh:
- Sarnath: Buddha delivered his first sermon.
- Kushinagar: Site of Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana.
Himachal Pradesh:
- Dharamshala: Headquarters of the Tibetan Government-in-Exile.
Maharashtra:
- Ajanta and Ellora Caves: Famous for Buddhist murals and sculptures.
Madhya Pradesh:
- Sanchi Stupa: A UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient stupas and inscriptions.
Conclusion
Odisha’s historical Buddhist heritage, including sites like Ratnagiri, underscores India’s significant contribution to the global spread of Buddhism. The legacy of ancient universities like Nalanda and the influence of Buddhist teachings continue to shape global culture and spirituality.