Story of Buddhism Film 5, Stupas of the Krishna Valley by Benoy K Behl

Summary

This video explores the rich cultural and historical legacy of the Krishna River Valley in present-day Andhra Pradesh. It highlights the flourishing of Buddhism in the region, showcasing ancient stupas, caves, and sculptures from sites like Amravati and Nagarjuna Konda. The video delves into the evolution of Buddhist art, tracing its development from the early symbolic representations of the Buddha to more intricate human depictions. It emphasizes the coexistence of different philosophical schools and the deep spiritual devotion reflected in the region's art and architecture, showcasing the profound connection between the land and its vibrant culture.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Krishna River Valley in the Eastern Deccan, present-day Andhra Pradesh, has been a fertile land for centuries and became a hub for art and culture.
• 😀 The region was known for its prosperous cosmopolitan culture, attracting traders and visitors from afar, including Romans, due to its cotton textiles.
• 😀 Buddhism flourished in the Krishna River Valley, with over 140 early Buddhist sites, including caves and stupas, marking its historical significance.
• 😀 The earliest Buddhist caves at Gunapoli and Kunta Polly date back to the 3rd century BC and were patronized by Emperor Ashoka and his grandson.
• 😀 The region was a major center for Buddhist worship, and stupas continued to be revered well into the 14th century AD.
• 😀 The Great Stupa at Amravati, constructed over several centuries, was an architectural marvel with intricate sculptures depicting the life of the Buddha.
• 😀 The Satavahana period saw the development of remarkable sculptural reliefs that depicted the Buddha and Buddhist narratives in intricate detail.
• 😀 The art at Amravati was marked by vitality and grace, with a focus on conveying spiritual beauty through lively figures and natural symbolism, such as lotuses.
• 😀 Art was a vital part of the Buddhist culture, and both men and women contributed to the making of sculptures, with women enjoying high social and economic status.
• 😀 The Nagarjuna Konda site continued the Buddhist artistic tradition, with sculptures depicting significant events in the Buddha's life, such as his birth and departure from the palace.

Q & A

What made the Krishna River Valley a fertile land since ancient times?

The Krishna River Valley, located in the Eastern Deccan of present-day Andhra Pradesh, was fertile due to its rich soil and favorable climate, which supported the development of agriculture and the flourishing of culture, particularly in cotton textiles that attracted foreign traders like the Romans.

How did Buddhism thrive in the Krishna River Valley?

Buddhism flourished in the Krishna River Valley for over 500 years, particularly during the period of Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. The region became one of the greatest centers of Buddhism, with numerous stupas and Buddhist caves that served as monastic sites and centers of philosophical study.

What is the significance of the Amravati stupa?

The Amravati stupa was a monumental structure dating from the first century BC to the third century AD. It was known for its intricate narrative sculptures, which depicted the life of the Buddha and key Buddhist teachings. The stupa's railings and drum slabs served as significant sources of early Buddhist art.

How did the art of the Amravati stupa evolve over time?

Over time, the art of the Amravati stupa evolved from simple, symbolic depictions of the Buddha to more detailed and realistic portrayals, especially in the second century AD. Artists began to depict the Buddha in human form, breaking away from earlier conventions that used symbols like chakras to represent him.

What role did the Satavahana rulers play in the development of Buddhist art?

The Satavahana rulers, who reigned from the first century BC to the second century AD, were significant patrons of Buddhist art. Their reign saw the creation of some of the most exquisite sculptures in the Krishna River Valley, including the famous Amravati stupa, and they ensured the prosperity of both Buddhist and Brahmanical traditions.

What role did women play in the religious and artistic life of ancient Andhra Pradesh?

Women played an important role in the religious and artistic life of ancient Andhra Pradesh. Many women held high religious titles, and numerous inscriptions from the period indicate their involvement in making donations to Buddhist monasteries and supporting the construction of religious monuments.

How did the artwork at Nagarjuna Konda reflect Buddhist teachings?

The artwork at Nagarjuna Konda, particularly from the 3rd and 4th centuries AD, continued the Buddhist tradition of depicting the life and teachings of the Buddha. Sculptures from this site show scenes like the birth of the Buddha and the great departure, emphasizing the Buddhist ideals of compassion and enlightenment.

What distinguishes the Buddha sculptures from the Andhra region compared to those from Mathura and Gandhara?

The Buddha sculptures from the Andhra region, particularly from the 3rd century AD onwards, are distinct for their unique artistic style. Unlike the more standardized depictions from Mathura and Gandhara, the Andhra Buddha sculptures were influential in shaping later Buddhist art, particularly in Southeast Asia.

How did the Ikshvaku dynasty contribute to Buddhist philosophy in the Krishna River Valley?

The Ikshvaku dynasty, which came to power in the 3rd century AD, played a significant role in the development of Buddhist philosophy, particularly under the influence of Nagarjuna, a key figure in Mahayana Buddhism. They established the city of Nagarjuna Konda as a major center for Buddhist monastic activity and philosophy.

What is the Chitra Sutra, and how does it relate to the art of this period?

The Chitra Sutra is an ancient treatise on art-making that emphasizes the purpose of art to transform individuals through harmony and grace. The sculptures and reliefs from the Krishna River Valley, such as those at Amravati, embody these principles by depicting the eternal and divine in a way that elevates the viewer’s spiritual experience.