The twin hills of Khandagiri and Udayagiri, about seven kilometre west of Bhubaneswar, are the earliest groups of Jain rock-cut architecture in eastern India. Here in some places the caves exhibi two-storeyed structures. The Rani Gumpha, or Queen's Cave, is the most famous one with a stretched verandah overlooking the courtyard.There are as many as 33 rock-carved caves in Odisha that have stood for two millennia.
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Introduction to Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves
The Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, located near Bhubaneswar in Odisha, are celebrated as two of the most significant examples of ancient Indian rock-cut architecture. Carved during the 1st century BCE, these caves served as shelters for Jain monks and reflect a period in Indian history where religious asceticism and craftsmanship flourished under royal patronage. The caves, divided between the two adjacent hills of Udayagiri and Khandagiri, are admired not only for their religious importance but also for their architectural grandeur, intricate carvings, and detailed inscriptions that tell the story of King Kharavela and his patronage of Jainism.
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| Udayagiri Khandagiri caves Odisha. outlookindia.com |
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| Udayagiri Khandagiri caves Odisha. outlookindia.com |
Historical and Religious Significance
The Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves were built during the reign of King Kharavela, a ruler of the Kalinga region who played a major role in promoting Jainism. The caves were created to house Jain monks, serving both as residential quarters and places of meditation. The spiritual influence of Jainism is evident in the carvings and inscriptions that decorate these caves.
According to historical records, including the famous Hathigumpha inscription, there were originally 117 caves excavated in the hills of Udayagiri and Khandagiri. Today, only 33 remain: 18 in Udayagiri and 15 in Khandagiri. These rock-cut temples are a testament to the religious devotion of Kharavela and the Jain community, providing insights into the religious and cultural landscape of ancient Odisha.
The Udayagiri Caves: Architectural Marvel
The caves in Udayagiri are particularly well-known for their architectural elegance, detailed carvings, and overall state of preservation. Among the 18 caves, the Ranigumpha (Cave 1) stands out for its impressive two-story design. This cave, often referred to as the "Queen's Palace," is adorned with elaborate carvings and intricate sculptural details, making it one of the most visited caves in the complex.
Another important cave in Udayagiri is the Ananta Cave (Cave 3), which contains beautiful carvings of women, athletes, elephants, and geese holding flowers. These depictions are skillfully crafted and reflect a harmonious blend of religious and secular themes.
The Hathigumpha (Cave 14), or “Elephant Cave,” is perhaps the most historically significant. This cave contains the famous Hathigumpha inscription, written in Brahmi script, which chronicles the reign of King Kharavela. The inscription, carved into the rock, provides valuable details about Kharavela’s military campaigns, contributions to public welfare, and dedication to Jainism. The Ganeshagumpha (Cave 10) is another well-known cave, appreciated for its sculptures and decorative relief works.
The Khandagiri Caves: A Historical Treasure
While the Khandagiri caves are less ornate and more roughly hewn compared to Udayagiri, they remain historically and religiously significant. The Mancapuri Cave is one of the most notable caves in Khandagiri. This cave, which features a two-story structure, contains an inscription on the upper floor. The inscription describes the construction of temples and caves for Jain arhats (spiritual teachers) by Kharavela's chief queen, Aga-mahisi. It also mentions Kharavela’s title as Chakravartin, meaning universal ruler, reflecting his dominance in the region.
Although the caves of Khandagiri are less decorated, they are essential for understanding the full scope of Jain monastic life during this period. The caves were carved to provide simple but functional living spaces for the monks.
Sculptural and Architectural Brilliance
The Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves are adorned with a variety of intricate carvings and sculptures that highlight the high level of craftsmanship of the time. Many of the caves feature sculptural reliefs depicting Jain motifs, including religious figures, animals, and scenes of daily life. Udayagiri, in particular, showcases a wide array of carvings that blend religious symbolism with artistic detail. The two-story structures, like Ranigumpha, demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of architectural principles, including the ability to carve stable multi-level structures from a single rock mass.
Conclusion
The Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves are not just architectural wonders but also religious monuments that provide insight into Jain monastic life and King Kharavela’s dedication to Jainism. These caves are a remarkable blend of artistry, religion, and history, preserving a unique chapter of Odisha's cultural heritage. Today, they are protected under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and continue to attract tourists, historians, and scholars from around the world. Their intricate carvings, inscriptions, and architectural designs make them a lasting symbol of ancient India’s rock-cut architectural achievement.
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