Int’l Buddhist Monks Thrilled with Nagarjunakonda Monuments

Vijayawada:A total of 105 Buddhist monks, including 88 from America, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam, participated in the first international Tipitaka (Tripitaka) chanting programme. The event was jointly organised by Mahabodhi Buddhavihara, Secunderabad, and the International Tripitaka Chanting Council, in association with Telangana Tourism, at Nagarjunakonda.

The visiting monks were captivated by the stunning architecture and sculptures at Nagarjunakonda, historically known as Sriparvata-Vijayapuri, which served as the capital of the Andhras during the Ikshvaku rule (3rd century CE). Dr E. Sivanagi Reddy, a Buddhist expert and CEO of Pleach India Foundation, provided insights into the history of Buddhism in the Nagarjunakonda valley. He highlighted significant Buddhist structures such as stupas, chaityas, viharas, silamandapas, a stadium, and the Hariri temple.

Kamal Hasan, assistant superintending archaeologist and in-charge of the Island Museum, elaborated on the antiquities and sculptures unearthed during excavations at Nagarjunakonda between 1954 and 1960.

The monks expressed their delight at visiting this world-renowned Buddhist site, where Buddhism once flourished with over 30 Buddhist establishments and an international university that attracted students from 14 countries to study various branches of knowledge.

Dr Reddy explained the architectural features of the Mahastupa and Chaityagrihas, as well as the mature phase of the Amaravati School of Art. He described sculptural panels depicting the life events of Gautama Buddha, Jataka stories, contemporary lifestyles, and intricate artistic designs and patterns.

The monks emphasised the need for an interpretation centre and a preview theatre to narrate the story of Nagarjuna and the history of Nagarjunakonda for visitors. They also praised Kamal Hasan for his efforts in maintaining the monuments in good condition.