Dhauli Giri Temple Odisha
The Dhauli Giri hill alongside the Daya River near Bhubaneswar in Odisha stands as a crucial location in Buddhist history. The site gains its significance through its connection to Emperor Ashoka’s profound change after his experience during the Kalinga War. Here’s a deeper exploration of this site:
Historical Significance:
The Kalinga War:
In the 3rd century BCE the Kalinga War brought destruction to the Dhauli hills. The massive bloodshed during the Kalinga War profoundly changed Emperor Ashoka who consequently adopted Buddhism.
Ashoka experienced a critical transformation when he adopted the principle of Dharma and non-violence after the Kalinga War.
Ashokan Edicts:
The Dhauli hills contain several of Emperor Ashoka’s major rock edicts carved into a rocky surface. The edicts reveal Ashoka’s repentance, his dedication to Dharma alongside his work to spread peace and compassion.
The inscriptions convey Ashoka’s messages through Prakrit language written with Brahmi script.
The Elephant Sculpture:
The rock-cut elephant sculpture stands out as one of Odisha’s oldest Buddhist artworks. This sculpture represents the Buddha and dates back to Ashoka’s period of rule.
The Shanti Stupa (Peace Pagoda):
The peace pagoda known as the Shanti Stupa stands on Dhauli Giri in more recent times. The collaborative construction of this white-domed structure by the Japan Buddha Sangh and the Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangh reinforces this site’s peaceful symbolism.
The Shanti stupa was established with the purpose of advancing global peace.
The stupa creates an atmosphere of serenity while displaying beautiful views of the neighboring landscape.
Key Features and Attractions:
Ashokan Rock Edicts: These inscriptions are of paramount historical importance.
The Elephant Sculpture: A remarkable piece of ancient art.
Shanti Stupa: A symbol of peace and tranquility.
Daya River: The site gains historical significance from its connection to the Kalinga War through the nearby Daya River.
Visitors to the site can enjoy exceptional panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Links to Further Information:
- For more information on the history and importance of the location, this Wikipedia page provides very good information. Dhauli – Wikipedia
- For information from the odisha tourism website. Dhauligiri – Odishatourisms
- To get art history information, about the elephant sculpture. Dhauli Elephant – MAP Academy
Dhauli Giri stands as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of peace and the enduring legacy of Emperor Ashoka’s commitment to Dharma.
