This article is in response to recent news concerning the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and its upcoming project. ASI plans to conserve an ancient Buddhist site located on the banks of Bhima River, near Kanaganahalli, in the Kalaburagi district of Karnataka. This site is a part of the significant Sannati site.
Conservation Project: An Overview
The conservation project has the objective of resetting the remnants of Maha Stupa that were retrieved from previous excavations back to their original positions. Minimal ornamentation is being planned for this project, and fallen sections of the Ayaka platforms will be reconstructed using freshly fabricated bricks.
The Findings of The Excavation
The excavation led to several fascinating findings. One of the most notable discoveries was the Ashokan Edict. These are a collection of over thirty inscriptions found on pillars, boulders, and cave walls, attributed to Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan Empire; he reigned from 268 BCE to 232 BCE.
Maha Stupa: The Great Stupa of The Netherworlds
A Maha Stupa was uncovered at the site and was referred to as Adholoka Maha Chaitya in the inscriptions. The stone-portrait of Emperor Ashoka, surrounded by his queens and female attendants, was a significant finding. It is believed that the Maha Stupa was developed in three construction phases – during the Maurya, Early Satavahana and Later Satavahana periods. These periods span from the 3rd Century B.C. to the 3rd Century A.D. The Stupa is believed to have been destroyed in an earthquake and is one of the largest of its time.
Sculptural and Inscriptional Findings
Other findings include the sculptural rendering of Jataka stories, which describe the previous existences of Buddha, when he appeared as both human and non-human forms. In addition, 72 drum-slabs decorated with varied Dharma-Chakras and sculptures of Yakshas and lion were discovered. Brahmi inscriptions with varied paleographical features were discovered as well; Brahmi script is one of the oldest writing systems used in the Indian subcontinent.
The Satavahanas: An Insight
The Satavahanas established their independent rule in the Deccan after the decline of the Mauryas, lasting for about 450 years. They were also known as the Andhras. The founder of the Satavahana dynasty was Simuka, and the greatest ruler was Gautamiputra Satakarni. They patronized Buddhism and Brahmanism and revived Brahmanism along with the performance of asvamedha and rajasuya sacrifices. They also patronized the Prakrit language and literature.
