BANPUR: A JAINA CENTRE IN ODISHA

Abstract

Abstract

The antiquities of Banpur stand as a mute witness to the political and cultural glory of this place. Banpur had its efflorescence under Kangoda (north and eastern part of district Ganjam and adjoining area of district Puri, modern Khurda) under the sway of the dynasties like Sailodbhavas, Bhaumakaras, Somavamsi and Gangas. Looking to the Buddhist and Jaina evidences found from Banpur, Achyutrajpur area, it can be said that secularism during the rule of these kings. Many copper plate grants have been found from this place to prove this view. The artistic injunctions in respect of the fashioning of the icons of the Tirthankaras found from this area are noted for their austeric way of life. None of the icons of the Tirthankaras is represented with the full panoply of prescribed Pratiharayas. The heavenly tree, showers of celestial blossoms, heavenly music and drums are not represented in any of the images.