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The centermost state of India, Madhya Pradesh is an important
stopover for a Buddhist follower. It has been placed on the Buddhist world map
as the important link in the growth and development of the faith during the
time of Emperor Ashoka. The state is renowned worldwide for a world famous
Buddhist Pilgrimage spot; Sanchi was created by the glorious Mauryan ruler,
Ashoka during 3rd – 12th century BC. His wife, Queen Devi
was a daughter of a merchant from Vidisha, an ancient kingdom in Madhya
Pradesh. Her strong connect with Vidisha made the king lay the foundation of
religious center, Sanchi. Also, the king overwhelmed with the devastating
effects of Kalinga war built the complex as a penance.
Over the nine centuries, the group of monuments at Sanchi
hill acquired the status as the masterpieces of Buddhist art. The complex hosts
many stupas, intricately carved gateways or Toranas, monasteries, temples and
pillars. Listed as world heritage site by UNESCO, the Buddhist site at Sanchi
is one of the prime Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Madhya Pradesh. The
balustrade surrounding Stupa 2, carved with an iconic representation of the
Buddha, was added in the late 2nd century BC under the Satavahanas. This
Buddhist attraction at Sanchi
can be visited from Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh.
Other important Buddhist shrines here include Deor Kothar in
Rewa District and Dharmrajeshwar. Deor Kothar is known for Buddhist Stupas
excavated in 1982. These stupas are credited to Mauryan emperor Ashoka the
great for preaching the religion. Dharmrajeshwar complex on Chandangiri Hill
includes a series of 14 rock cut Buddhist caves with monasteries and Stupas of
the 7th century. The complex here features ruins of a well planned monastery
with more than 70 living quarters, pavilions, meditation halls, stupas and
images of Lord Buddha and his disciples. Truly, Madhya Pradesh
is distinctive in terms of Buddhist heritage of the country and undoubtedly
makes an enriching Buddhist tour.
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