Renunciation of worldly desires, freedom from vexation and liberation from ignorance are the three pillars of Nirvana, a term which is commonly used in Buddhism, referring to a state of bliss which liberates the soul from the cycle of rebirth. A visit to Udayagiri may not promise such alluring prospect, but it is sure to offer a visceral experience of the rich Buddhist heritage in Odisha.
A two-hour drive from Bhubaneswar takes you to this enchanting Buddhist complex situated on the right bank of river Birupa, a tributary of Mahanadi, in Jajpur district. Udayagiri was discovered during the excavations by Archaeological Survey of India in 1985-89 and 1997-2003. Sitting on the basin of a U-shaped hill, the remains consist of a huge monastic complex, a brick Mahastupa, two brick monasteries, a massive shrine complex, a beautiful stone-stepped well and various rock cut sculptures. The edges of the U-shaped valley look like perfectly shaped giant-sized tools with the landscape exhibiting a roughly hewn, stunted look about it. It seems like a perfect setting to explore the century-old ‘newly found’ structures.
Excavation work during 1985-89 was primarily confined to the north western part of this venerable settlement. Prominent structures, which were unearthed include a 4.8 m high Mahastupa harbouring images of “Dhyani Buddhas” and a brick monastery (35x35m) with a prodigious image of Buddha, adorned with a beautifully decorated doorway. Several terracotta sealings have been found in this site bearing the inscription, “Sri Madhavapura Mahavihariya Aryabhikshu Sanghasya”, confirming the settlement’s name as Madhavapura Mahavihariya.
Field work started in the south eastern half of the foothill during 1997-2000 revealing an impressive brick-built double-storied monastic complex against the inclined terrain. It comprises of a spacious courtyard on its northern side, a large figure of seated Buddha, thirteen cells, vaulted windows, an inner secret chamber, existence of an upper shrine chamber on the first floor and a brick built water reservoir on the rear south west corner.
The most enthralling structure is a low stone platform consisting of eight lions (originally ten), which served as a ‘simhasana’ for accommodating five colossal images of Dhyani Buddha, as suggested by the large fragmented pieces that were recovered from adjacent areas. Several inscriptions and architectural style indicate that this monastery was flourishing between 7th and 12th century AD. This monastic area is identified as Simhaprastha Mahavihara, based on various inscriptions found on terracotta sealings.
Stone figures of Bhrikuti Tara and Lokeshvara have been found accompanied by eight great Bodhisattvas (Ashta Mahabodhisattvas).
The term Bodhisattva refers to a divine being worthy of Nirvana who remains on the human plane to help others to walk on the path of salvation.
Several pots (mostly wheel thrown and well-fired) have also been found. These are made up of sandy clay found near river Birupa. Other specimens include handmade or moulded pots, corrugated bowls, spouted vessels, lamps, storage jars, pans, basins and troughs with plain and decorated lids.
Fact file
Getting there: Located in Jajpur district, Udayagiri is 90 kms from Bhubaneswar through NH-5A (via Chandikhole).
Best time to visit: Any time between October and February.
Private cab service is the best option to visit Udayagiri.
Packaged tours can also be arranged.