“Buddha Miniature Sculpture” found in Karnataka

What is the News?

A miniature sculpture of the Buddha has been found in Badagabettu village in Udupi district of Karnataka.

About Buddha Miniature Sculpture:

Source: The Hindu

• The sculpture is made out of soft sandstone. It is around nine centimetres high, five centimetres wide and two centimetres thick.
• Style: The sculpture is in the Gupta style. It looks like a replica of the Sarnath Buddha.
• Features:
  • The Buddha is seated on a lotus pedestal in Dharma Chakra Pravartana Mudra.
  • Below the seat, six disciples are seated on either side of the Dharma Chakra.
  • The Lord wears clothes and earrings. A small Ushnisha(three-dimensional oval at the top of the head) is also shown on the top of the head. In the back of the head, a beautifully carved round lobe is seen.
  • On the top corners, two Yakshas and on either side of his back, two-winged horses have also been carved out.

Significance of this discovery:

• Traditionally, ancient Tulu Nadu was said to be ruled by the Kadambas of Banavasi. The Guptas and the Kadambas of Banavasi had matrimonial relations.
• Hence, the discovery of the Buddha sculpture is not an uncommon thing. But, it has thrown open a new chapter in the history of the Udupi district and in the study of Buddhism in South India.

Source: The Hindu