The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), along with heritage enthusiasts and administrators, have successfully curtailed the stone-pelting ritual at Bojjannakonda. This notable Buddhist site, located at Sankaram near Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, had been the scene of a traditional act on Kanuma day during Sankranti. Local villagers would pelt stones at a belly-shaped object, interpreting it as part of a demon. INTACH’s intervention demonstrates its continued commitment to preserving and conserving India’s rich heritage.
The Significance of Kanuma Day
Kanuma Day is a significant event in the Pongal and Sankranti festivals, both ancient harvest celebrations occurring mid-January. These festivities commemorate the sun’s reversing movement, symbolizing the beginning of winter’s end. In Andhra Pradesh, the Kanuma festival takes place on the third of the four-day Sankranti festival. This festival holds great importance for the Telugu people as it honors cattle and other animals, crucial contributors to the region’s rural economy.
The Importance of Bojjannakonda
Bojjannakonda is known for its main stupa, which is intricately carved out of rock and then covered with bricks. Numerous Buddha images are sculpted all over the hill. Bojjannakonda and Lingalametta are twin Buddhist monasteries dating back to the 3rd century BC. In Lingalametta, one can find hundreds of rock-cut monolithic stupas in rows. These sites have witnessed three forms of Buddhism- Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana. They represent Lord Buddha as a teacher, display a more devotional form of Buddhism, and emphasize Tantra and esoteric practice, respectively.
| Forms of Buddhism | Description |
|---|---|
| Theravada period | Buddha is considered as Teacher |
| Mahayana | Buddhism is more devotional |
| Vajrayana | Buddhism is practiced in Tantra and esoteric form |
The Name Sankaram and Buddhist Legacy
The term ‘Sankaram’ derives from ‘Sangharama’. The area is renowned for its votive stupas, rock-cut caves, brick-built structural edifices, early historic pottery, and Satavahana coins dating back to the 1st century AD. In addition, Visakhapatnam is famed for other Buddhist sites at Thotlakonda, Appikonda, and Bavikonda.
About the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH)
INTACH is a non-profit charitable organization registered under the Societies’ Registration Act, 1860. Founded in 1984 in New Delhi, INTACH was established with a vision to spearhead heritage awareness and conservation throughout India. Their efforts encompass not only natural and built heritage but also intangible heritage. In 2007, the United Nations granted INTACH special consultative status with its Economic and Social Council.
