Recently the Ministry of Tourism inaugurated various public facilities at Kanheri Caves on the occasion of Buddha Purnima.
Kanheri Caves – Today Current Afairs
The Kanheri Caves are a group of caves and rock-cut monuments located on the western outskirts of Mumbai. These caves are located within the forests of Sanjay Gandhi National Park.
The name Kanheri is derived from ‘Kanhagiri’ in Prakrit and its description is found in the Nasik inscription of the Satavahana ruler Vasisthaputra Pulumavi.
The mention of Kanheri is found in the travelogues of foreign travelers.
Kanheri is first described by Fahien, who came to India during 399-411 AD and was later described by many other travellers.
Excavation : The Hindu Analysis
The Kanheri Caves involve excavation of over 110 different monoliths and is one of the largest single excavations in the country.
The size and extent of the excavation, as well as numerous water reservoirs, inscriptions, one of the oldest dams, a stupa burial gallery and an excellent rainwater harvesting system, attest to its popularity as a monastic and pilgrimage centre.
Architecture : The Hindu Analysis
These excavations were mainly done during the Hinayana phase of Buddhism but also include some prints of the Vajrayana order, along with many examples of Mahayana stylistic architecture.
Protection : The Hindu Analysis
It flourished through the patronage of Kanheri Satavahanas, Trikutaks, Vakatakas and Silharas as well as donations made by the wealthy merchants of the region.
Importance : The Hindu Analysis
Kanheri Caves are part of our ancient heritage as they provide evidence of development and our past.
The architecture and engineering of heritage sites like Kanheri Caves and Ajanta Ellora Caves reflect the knowledge of the people of that time in terms of art, engineering, management, construction, patience and perseverance etc. The Hindu Analysis
At that time it took more than 100 years to build many such monuments.
Its importance is heightened by the fact that it is the only center where the continuous progress of Buddhism and architecture is seen as a lasting legacy from the 2nd century AD to the 9th century AD.
Hinayana and Mahayana:
Hinayana : The Hindu Analysis
Literally small vehicle, also known as abandoned vehicle or defective vehicle. It believes in the basic teaching of the Buddha or ‘the doctrine of the elders’.
It does not believe in idol worship and tries to attain personal salvation through self-discipline and meditation.
Theravada is a part of the Hinayana sect.
Mahayana : The Hindu Analysis
This sect of Buddhism considers Buddha as a deity and believes in idol worship.
It originated in northern India and Kashmir and from there spread to some areas of Central Asia, East Asia and South-East Asia.
Believes in Mahayana mantras.
Its main principles were based on the possibility of universal liberation from suffering for all beings. Therefore, this sect is called Mahayana (Great Vehicle).
Its doctrines are also based on the existence of ‘incarnations of nature’ of Buddha and Bodhisattvas. It talks about attaining salvation through having faith in Buddha and devoting oneself to him.
In this article we mention all information about Kanheri Caves Today Current Afairs.
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