Bhubaneswar: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has made significant discoveries during ongoing excavations at the historic Ratnagiri Buddhist site in Jajpur district. These findings enhance the site’s 1,200-year legacy by uncovering a wealth of ancient Buddhist artefacts, further solidifying Ratnagiri’s status as a cornerstone of Buddhist heritage in Odisha.
Among the discoveries are a Buddhist monastery complex, stone sculptures of Bhagwan Buddha, votive stupas, inscribed stones, pottery, beads, stone pillars, and an ancient brick wall believed to be part of a larger structure. Notably, a fragmented yet impressive monolithic elephant measuring five feet in length and 3.5 feet in height has been hailed as one of the largest and most graceful sculptures of its kind in Odisha.
The excavation, which began in December 2024, is supervised by ASI Deputy Superintendent Prajnaprati Pradhan and supported by students from Guwahati, Assam, Sambalpur, and Utkal Universities. Led by Puri Circle Superintendent Dibashish Gadnayak, the project aims to uncover more artefacts that provide insights into the rich history and cultural influence of Buddhism in Odisha.
Among the highlights of the excavation are a colossal Buddha head and sculptural fragments of Buddhist deities, along with a collection of monolithic and masonry votive stupas. These findings reflect the artistic and architectural ingenuity of the era, underscoring Ratnagiri’s historical significance.
Ratnagiri began to decline in the 13th century CE due to invasions by Muslim rulers, although some activity at the site persisted until the 16th century CE. Experts believe the current excavation will greatly enhance understanding of the evolution of Buddhism in Odisha and its connections with Southeast Asia.
However, the excavation has encountered challenges from local encroachments. Many villagers have constructed structures on parts of the Buddhist site, which hampers conservation and excavation efforts. Activists have emphasised the urgent need for government intervention to protect this invaluable repository of Buddhist art and architecture.
Dr Sunil Patnaik, Secretary of the Odisha Institute of Maritime and Southeast Asian Studies (OIMSEAS), revealed that the unearthed monastery dates back to the 8th century CE. Developed under the patronage of the Bhauma kara dynasty, the site flourished as a prominent Buddhist centre from the 8th to the 11th centuries CE. Unique to Ratnagiri, the Buddha sculptures discovered here feature intricate and distinctive hairstyles not found elsewhere in India.
Ratnagiri, known as the “Hill of Jewels,” was first documented in 1905 by Manmohan Chakravarty, then a sub-divisional officer of Jajpur. Initial excavations between 1958 and 1961, led by eminent archaeologist Dr. Debala Mitra, unearthed a wealth of artefacts, including a brick stupa, three monasteries, eight temples, and over 700 votive stupas. Mitra compared Ratnagiri to the renowned Nalanda Buddhist establishment and dated the site’s nucleus to the 5th century CE, with its development continuing until the 12th century CE.
The discoveries at Ratnagiri are anticipated to boost its global recognition as a centre of Buddhist learning and culture. Officials are hopeful that further excavations will uncover additional relics, thereby enriching the legacy of this ancient site.
