- Nagarjuna Konda became the main center for Amaravati School of Art.
- Mahayana Buddhism was followed in the Architectural work.
- The Practice of Sati was first found in Amaravati Sculptures.
Mandhata Sculpture:
- Important Sculpture during Ikshvakus Period, this is present in Jaggaiah pet.
- This revealed the pictures of Kings for the 1″ time.
- The practice of writing the names of sculptors on sculptures and Temples started during the Ikshvakus period. The Practice of writing date, year and tithi on inscriptions also started during this period.
- The name of the sculpture “Bhattacharya ” is seen on Vihara at NagarjunaKonda. The Universities in Amravati and Nagarjuna Konda have gained popularity. The Nagarjunakonda became a Prominent Buddhist ararma in 2nd Century A.D.
- The important construction in NagarjunaKonda was the acoustic center.
- Important stupa which was built during Ikshvakus was at Nelakondapally.
- The Copper statue of Buddha and 9 statues of Budda engraved on white marble stone of Ikshvakus period were found during excavations at Nelakondapally.
- One Buddha stupa and two lion toys made with white stone were found at Gajula Banda.
Other Constructions:
- Sarvadevalayam in Neeleeswaram
- Saptamatruka Statues at Chejarla
- Veerapuram Temple
- Konidena, Peddamudium Sculptures
- Viragal ” is the Practice of installing the statues of martyrs. This started from the Ikshvakus period.
Examine the contributions of the Ikshavaku dynasty to the development of Buddhistic arts and architecture. Highlight the significance of Nagarjunakonda in this context.
| Introduction | The Ikshavaku dynasty made significant contributions to Buddhist arts and architecture. After the decline of the Satavahana Empire, the Ikshavakus continued to support and develop Buddhist culture, especially evident at the site of Nagarjunakonda. This period saw important advancements in Buddhist art and architecture, including the construction of stupas, viharas, and chaityas. |
| Body | Contributions to Buddhistic Arts:
Patronage of Buddhism: · The Ikshavaku rulers were ardent patrons of Buddhism, supporting the construction of numerous Buddhist monuments. Their patronage extended to different sects of Buddhism, including the Aparamahavinaseliya, Mahaviharavasini, Mahisasaka, and Bahusruteya, which influenced the architectural styles and artistic expressions. Artistic Innovations: · The Ikshavaku period saw the introduction of human representations of Buddha, a significant departure from earlier aniconic depictions. This change was partly influenced by the Aparamahavinaseliya branch, which encouraged the creation of Buddha statues in human form, enhancing the visual appeal and spiritual resonance of Buddhist art. Architectural Developments: Stupas and Viharas: · The construction of stupas during the Ikshavaku period can be categorized into three types: those built over relics of Buddha or monks, those built over articles used by monks, and memorial stupas without relics. These structures were not only religious centers but also hubs of artistic activity, reflecting the architectural advancements of the time. Innovative Structures: · Excavations at Nagarjunakonda have revealed an array of structures, including an impregnable fort, moats, open-air stadiums, asvamedha platforms, and multiple Buddhist stupas, viharas, and chaityas. The unique multi-storied playground and the potential involvement of Roman experts in its construction indicate a blend of local and foreign architectural influences. |
| Significance of Nagarjunakonda:
Cultural Hub: · Nagarjunakonda emerged as a prominent center of Buddhist learning and culture during the Ikshavaku period. Approximately 30 Buddhist aramas, representing various Buddhist sects, were constructed here, each contributing to the site’s rich architectural and cultural tapestry. Archaeological Findings: · The archaeological excavations at Nagarjunakonda have unearthed significant artifacts and structures, providing valuable insights into the Ikshavaku dynasty’s contributions to Buddhistic arts. The site stands as a testament to the dynasty’s architectural prowess and its role in the propagation of Buddhism. |
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| Conclusion | The Ikshavaku dynasty made lasting contributions to Buddhist arts and architecture in the 3rd and 4th centuries CE. Their support led to significant advancements in Buddhist art, particularly in the construction of stupas, viharas, and innovative structures at Nagarjunakonda. This site highlights the dynasty’s architectural achievements and its importance as a cultural and religious center |
