ASI Unearths Buddhist Relics at Odisha’s Ratnagiri

Why in the news?

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) uncovered significant Buddhist relics at Ratnagiri in Odisha, enhancing the region’s 1,200-year-old Buddhist legacy. These findings highlight Odisha’s historical ties with Southeast Asia and its cultural exchange through trade.

ASI Unearths Buddhist Relics at Odisha’s Ratnagiri

Recent Discoveries at Ratnagiri:

  • Excavations led by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) have uncovered significant Buddhist relics:
    • A colossal Buddha head.
    • A large palm sculpture.
    • An ancient wall.
    • Inscribed artifacts dating back to the 8th and 9th centuries.
  • These discoveries offer valuable insight into the region’s Buddhist heritage and its historical significance.

Historical and Cultural Significance

  • Buddhism in Odisha: Odisha has a rich Buddhist history, flourishing under the Bhaumakara dynasty and dating back to Emperor Ashoka’s conversion after the Kalinga War.
  • The region’s strategic location fostered maritime trade with Southeast Asia, dealing in spices, silk, and gold, further enriching Odisha’s culture.
  • The annual Baliyatra festival celebrates Odisha’s 2,000-year-old maritime connection with Southeast Asia, particularly Bali.

About Ratnagiri Site:

  • Location: 100 km northeast of Bhubaneswar, Odisha; situated between Birupa and Brahmani rivers.
  • Part of Diamond Triangle of Odisha, alongside Udaygiri and Lalitgiri; Ratnagiri means ‘Hills of Jewels’.
  • Time Period: Active between 5th-13th centuries, peak from 7th-10th centuries; center for Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism.
  • Hiuen Tsang, the Chinese Buddhist monk, visited in 638-639 AD.
  • First documented in 1905.
  • Recent Discoveries: Buddha head, massive palm, ancient wall, inscribed relics (8th-9th century).

Buddhism in Odisha:

  • Flourished under Bhaumakara dynasty (8th-10th century).
  • Ashoka embraced Buddhism after Kalinga War (261 BC).
  • Strong trade links with Southeast Asia; Baliyatra festival commemorates these connections.

Who built the Ratnagiri Monastery?

  • Likely established during the reign of Gupta king Narasimha Baladitya (first half of the 6th century); flourished until the 12th century.

These findings not only enhance our understanding of Odisha’s Buddhist past but also underscore its historical ties with Southeast Asia.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times