'Buddhist relics at Ratangiri, 5th century AD, Odisha, India' - by K J S Chatrath

 I have visited Ratangiri Monastery in Jajpur district of Odisha twice. It is on the flat hill top and affords a panoramic view of the surrounding. It might have been chosen by the Buddhist establishment for its isolated eminence which ensures the monks seclusion for the serene and calm atmosphere necessary for monastic life, meditation and studies.

 Excavations conducted by Archeological Survey of India in late 1960s yielded the remains of an impressive stupa (Stupa I) surrounded by a large number of votive stupas of varying dimensions, two quadrangular monasteries (monastaries 1 &2), a single winged huge monastery with beautiful carved doorjamb and lintel, specious open court yard, cells and verandahs facing the courtyard with a large sanctum enshrining colossal Buddha. The existence of temple with curvilinear tower is only one of its kind discovered in Odisha.

From the impressive remains and a large number of sculptures discovered during excavations, it is clear that the Buddhist establishment of Ratnagiri dating from circa 5th century AD, witnessed a phenomenal growth in religion, art & architecture till the 13th century AD. A large number of stone sculptures, a few bronze and brass images of Buddha and Buddhist pantheon were recovered during excavations tending to prove that Ratnagiri was a great Tantric centre of Buddhism comparable to that of Nalanda in Bihar.

A large number of clay sealings, found during excavations, bearing the legend ‘Sri Ratnagiri Mahavihara Arya Bhikshu Samghasya’ have helped in identifying the name of Ratnagiri monastery. By the end of the 13th century AD, it was on decline, decadence is discernible. i.e. in architecture & sculptural art of Ratnagiri. Though no longer in an affluent condition, the Buddhist establishment at Ratnagiri continued till about 16th century AD.

(Text sourced from the A.S.I. Information Board at the site)


 

 










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