Buddhism came to South India as early as the pre-Christian era and it has some of the most fascinating archaeological monuments that tell the story of this religion and the legacy it left behind. Buddhist sculptures adorning cities to thousands of years old excavations, Telangana possesses rich Buddhist heritage.
The Hussainsagar Buddha:
Smack in the centre of the Hussainsagar lake, stands the world’s largest monolithic Buddha statue. Standing at 58 ft, it is the face of Buddhism in Telangana, visited by millions of people annually. The Hussainsagar is a heart shaped lake in Hyderabad and this Buddha statue brings about a serene ambience in the bustling attraction for tourists and Buddhists.
Buddha figurines at Salar Jung Museum
The gandhara style Buddha figures make up for quite a divine collection at the famous Salar Jung Museum in Hyderabad. An excellent standing figure of Buddha of 3rd century A.D. unearthed from Nelakondapally is exhibited in the gallery.
Nagarjunkonda Buddist monasteries
One of India’s richest Buddhist sites, Nagarjunakonda hosts the relics of many Buddhist universities and monasteries which attracted students from China, Bengal and Sri Lanka in ancient times. Excavations have revealed over 30 Buddhist monasteries, proving a strong foothold of Buddhism in the city. Others items of Buddhist origin found include Maha Chaitya, Viharas, Buddha statues, relics, stone images and Jataka tales encrypted panels.
The Phinagiri Maha Stupa
In the village of Phinagiri, excavations yielded the Maha Stupa, a stone pillared congregation containing personal belongings of Buddhist monks. Stones inscribed with Jataka tales, beads, earthenware are other treasures of the Buddhist civilization revealed here.Telangana is a treasure chest of Buddhist history. It is a time traveling machine for history enthusiasts and the spiritually inclined. From museums to ancient archaeological sites and temples, Telangana’s riches in one of the most profound spiritual philosophies of the world make it a truly unforgettable experience.
Telangana is a treasure chest of Buddhist history. It is a time traveling machine for history enthusiasts and the spiritually inclined. From museums to ancient archaeological sites and temples, Telangana’s riches in one of the most profound spiritual philosophies of the world make it a truly unforgettable experience.
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