DEZINE MANIA

From the second century BCE onwards, various rulers established their control over the vast Mauryan Empire: the Shungas, Kanvas, Kushanas and Guptas in the north and parts of central India; the Satavahanas, Ikshavakus, Abhiras, Vatakas in southern and western India. The period also marked the rise of the main Brahmanical sects such as the Vaishnavas and Shaivas. Places where important sculptures are seen Some of the finest sculptures of this period are found at Vidisha, Barhut (M.P), Bodhgaya (Bihar), Jaggaypetta (Andhra Pradesh), Mathura (UP), Khandagiri-Udayagiri (Odisha), Bhaja near Pune (Maharashtra). Barhut Barhut sculptures are tall like the images of Yaksha and Yakshini in the Mauryan period. Modelling of the sculpture volume is in low relief maintaining linearity. Relief panels are depicted by narratives and clarity in the narratives are enhanced by selecting main events. Narrative panels are shown with fewer characters, but as the time progress, apart from the main character i

Sixth century B.C. marks the beginning of new religious and social movements in the Gangetic valley in the form of Buddhism and Jainism (Sraman/ Shraman Tradition ). Magadha emerged as a powerful kingdom and consolidated its control over the other religions. By the third century, a large part of India was under Maurya control. Ashoka emerged as the most powerful king of the Maurya dynasty. Religious practices had many dimensions during this period. Worship of Yakshas and Mother Goddess was prevalent during that time. Yaksha worship was very popular before and after the advent of Buddhism and it was assimilated in Buddhism and Jainism. Construction of stupas and viharas (dwelling place of monks) became part of the Buddhist tradition. However, in this period, apart from stupas and viharas, stone pillars, rock cut caves and monumental figure sculptures were carved in several places. Pillars Even though constructing pillars are very old, Mauryan pillars are different from the pillars in th