The Hindu and Buddhist history of Odisha , or rather, ancient Kalinga, is rather well known to everyone. Who hasn’t heard of the grand temples of Odisha – Puri, Lingaraj and Konark, or the great war of Kalinga which inspired Ashoka to convert to Buddhism? In contrast, very few know of the Jaina heritage of this region. This is quite a pity, since, just around 7 km from the city, is one of India’s most ancient inscriptions, which throws light on the Jaina heritage of Odisha. This inscription is the Hathigumpha inscription of Kharavela, in the hills of Udaygiri. Udaygiri and Khandgiri are two hills located opposite each other, and both are testaments to the rich Jaina heritage of Odisha. The caves at Udaygiri are older, while Khandgiri is relatively newer, but has lasted much longer, and continues to be a place of pilgrimage for Jains even today. These hills, from inscriptions and excavations of caves, shrines and rock beds, appear to have been a haven for Jaina monks, right from the ...
The monsoon at Mahabaleshwar is a sight to see. The pouring rain, the dense fog, lush green valleys and mountains everywhere your eyes can see.... and vendors selling hot tea and corn at every turning.
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Ah! Garma Garm Bhuttas in the rain :) A treat, that is :)
ReplyDeleteI would love bhuttas in this cold too, Arti!!! but its a pity cant seem to see them anywhere in mumbai these days!
Deletethis is my India!!
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely, Krishna!!
DeleteJust Perfect.. there is nothing like having a hot bhutta ceremoniasly pasted with lemon & mint on a rainy day..!
ReplyDeleteoh, absolutely, Devil Incarnate! and the thought of it makes me salivate even now!
DeletePoor people
ReplyDeleteTrue, Bhavesh... we do feel sorry for people like him who brave the weather to make our lives easier... and there is no doubt that it is people like him who make our memories that much more memorable!
DeleteTough life!
ReplyDeletewww.rajniranjandas.blogspot.in