Context:
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) discovered Buddhist caves and stupas at Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh.
Relevance:
Prelims, GS I: History
What are the Findings?
Buddhist Caves:
- 26 Buddhist Caves were discovered dating back to the 2nd and 5th centuries, pertaining to the Mahayana sect of Buddhism.
- The caves and some of their remains had ‘Chaitya’ (rounded) doors and stone beds typical of Mahayana Buddhism sites.
Inscriptions in Brahmi text:
- 24 inscriptions in Brahmi text were, all dating back to the 2nd-5th centuries.
- The inscriptions mention sites such as Mathura and Kaushambi, and Pavata, Vejabharada and Sapatanaairikaa.
- The kings they mention include Bhimsena, Pothasiri and Bhattadeva.
Remains of Temples:
- The remains of 26 temples dating to the Kalachuri period between 9th-11th centuries and the possibly world’s largest Varaha sculpture also dating to the same period were found.
- The Kalachuri dynasty, which spread over parts of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, is also associated with the earliest Ellora and Elephanta cave monuments.
- The Varaha sculpture is among the many monolithic sculptures of the 10 incarnations of Lord Vishnu.
- Two Saiva mutts have also been found.
Remains of the Gupta Period:
- Some remains of the Gupta period, such as door jambs and carvings in caves, have been found.
-Source: The Hindu
