Context:
The Sannati Bhddhist site, left neglected for many years after it came to light through the ASI excavations in the 1990s, got a restoration project in 2022.
Relevance:
Facts for Prelims
Sannati Buddhist Site: A Historical Overview
Location and Importance:
Geographical Context:
- The Sannati Buddhist site is situated on the banks of the Bhima river near Kanaganahalli, which is part of the larger Sannati archaeological complex in the Kalaburagi district of Karnataka.
- Apart from its historical significance, the site also attracts tourists due to the nearby Chandrala Parameshwari Temple.
Historical Significance and Findings:
Phases of Development:
- The site is believed to have evolved over three distinct constructional phases: Maurya, Early Satavahana, and Later Satavahana periods, spanning from the 3rd Century B.C. to the 3rd Century A.D.
Ranamandala Area:
- The Ranamandala region of Sannati provides a unique chronological scale, offering insights into both prehistoric and early historic times.
Inscriptions and Artifacts:
- An inscription discovered at the site, written in Prakrit language using the Brahmi script, sheds light on the linguistic and scriptural practices of the era.
- A notable discovery includes a stone sculpture depicting Mauryan Emperor Ashoka, showcasing him alongside his queens and female attendants. The sculpture bears the inscription “Raya Asoko” in Brahmi script, confirming the identity of the depicted figure.
- The archaeological excavations at the site have also unearthed approximately 60 dome slabs featuring sculptural depictions of Jataka stories, significant events in Buddha’s life, portraits of Shatavahana monarchs, and unique representations of Buddhist missionaries dispatched by Emperor Ashoka to various regions.
Nearby Historical Sites:
Nagavi Ghatikasthana:
- Situated around 40 km from Sannati, the ancient Nagavi Ghatikasthana is often referred to as the “Takshashila of the South” by historians.
- This Ghatikasthana, akin to a modern-day university, emerged as a prominent educational center during the reigns of the Rashtrakuta and Kalyana Chalukya dynasties between the 10th and 12th centuries.
-Source: The Hindu
