Welcome back to another episode of ILF Radio, where today we journey into the timeless world of the Ajanta Caves. More than artistic marvels, these rock-cut monuments are a window into the spiritual and cultural life of ancient India. Built between the 2nd century BCE and 6th century CE, Ajanta reflects the evolving traditions of Buddhism, beginning with the simple, austere Hinayana phase and later embracing the more elaborate Mahayana imagery. The caves are celebrated for their breathtaking murals and sculptures, which vividly depict stories from the Jataka tales, daily life, and the path to enlightenment. These paintings, with their refined colors and flowing lines, capture the essence of compassion, devotion, and artistic brilliance. Yet, over time, Ajanta faced decline with the waning of Buddhism in India. In this episode, we’ll explore these layers- faith, art, and eventual obscurity.
Glossary:
1. Chaitya – A Buddhist prayer hall or shrine, often housing a stupa.
2. Vihara – A Buddhist monastery or dwelling place for monks.
3. Avadanas – Legendary or moral stories illustrating Buddhist teachings.
4. Jatakas – Tales of the previous lives of the Buddha, teaching moral lessons.
5. Vinaya – The regulatory framework or code of conduct for Buddhist monks and nuns.
6. Nirgranthikas – Ascetic sects in ancient India, often associated with Jainism.
7. Ajivikas – An ancient Indian religious sect emphasizing fatalism and strict asceticism.
8. Mahasanghikas – One of the early Buddhist schools, emphasizing the transcendental nature of the Buddha.
9. Theravadins – Followers of the Theravada school, emphasizing the earliest Buddhist teachings.
10. Sravastavadins – A Buddhist sect known for its detailed Abhidharma scholasticism.
11. Māra – The demon or personification of temptation and death in Buddhism.
12. Avalokiteshvara – The Bodhisattva of compassion in Mahayana Buddhism.
13. Manjushri – The Bodhisattva representing wisdom in Mahayana Buddhism.
14. Bodhisattva – An enlightened being who delays final nirvana to help others achieve enlightenment.
Explore visuals from today's episode- https://www.p4panorama.com/360-virtual-tour/ajanta-caves/
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