20/03/2025
Lauria Nandangarh, also known as Lauriya Navandgarh, is a historic site located in the West Champaran district of Bihar, India. Situated approximately 14 km from Narkatiaganj and 28 km from Bettiah, it lies near the banks of the Burhi Gandak River. The name “Lauria” is derived from the Ashoka Pillar (“laur”) found there, while “Nandangarh” refers to a nearby mound, both contributing to the site’s historical significance.
Ashoka Pillar: One of the prominent features of Lauria Nandangarh is the Ashoka Pillar, a monolithic sandstone structure over 10 meters (32 feet) high. The pillar’s top is adorned with a lion statue and inscribed with edicts from Emperor Ashoka, dating back to the 3rd century BCE. These edicts reflect Ashoka’s commitment to spreading Buddhism across his empire.
Stupa Mounds and Excavations: The site also contains approximately 15 stupa mounds arranged in three rows, each extending over 600 meters. Excavations have uncovered that these mounds are earthen burial memorials with brick revetments, some featuring double-tiered brick linings. Artifacts such as human and animal figurines, coins, and terracotta seals from the Shunga and Kushana periods have been found, indicating the site’s historical importance.
19/03/2025
The Lomas Rishi Cave is an important archaeological and historical site located in the Barabar Hills in Bihar, India. This cave, dating back to the Maurya period (around the 3rd century BCE), is one of the earliest examples of rock-cut architecture in India. Here’s a brief report on the cave:
Historical Significance:
Mauryan Period: The cave dates back to the Mauryan Empire under the rule of Emperor Ashoka (c. 268–232 BCE), though it was likely constructed before Ashoka’s reign. The Mauryan Empire is known for its patronage of Buddhism and the development of rock-cut architecture.
Buddhist Connection: The Lomas Rishi Cave is a Buddhist cave, and it is believed to have been used by Buddhist monks for meditation and living spaces. It is named after a Buddhist sage, Lomas Rishi, who is believed to have meditated in the cave.
Preservation:
The Lomas Rishi Cave is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and has been maintained as a historical site for tourists and scholars. However, as with many ancient monuments, it faces challenges related to weathering and natural erosion.
Conclusion:
The Lomas Rishi Cave at Barabar is a significant archaeological site that offers insights into the early history of rock-cut architecture in India, particularly during the Mauryan period. Its Buddhist associations, architectural features, and inscriptions make it an important site for understanding the cultural and religious developments of ancient India.
11/03/2025
is celebrating International Women Day from
8 march 2025 - 15 march 2025 . International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global event recognized by governments worldwide, and many nations observe it with declarations, events, and initiatives promoting gender equality and women’s rights.
02/03/2025
PGDA students visited Barabar Caves, Excavated site of Kurisarai, Archaeological Museum Bodhgaya and Mahabodhi Temple under the guidance of Dr. Virendra Kumar, ASA, Patna Circle
06/02/2025
Conservation of the recently excavated site of Kurisarai, District- Gaya is being carried out by ASI, Patna Circle