Dhauli Shanti Stupa, Dhauligiri Hills
Dhauli Shanti Stupa of Dhauligiri is also known as the Peace Pagda. Dhauligiri at a distance of 7 Km from Bhubaneswar. Shanti Stupa was built in 1972 by the Japan Buddha Sangha and the Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha as a symbol of peace and harmony. It is a white dome-shaped structure with four niches that contain statues of Buddha in different postures.
Tourists include the tour of the famous Dhaulagiri hill as a part of many of the Bhubaneswar Tour Packages. Dhauligiri also organizes light and sound shows, the timings of which are – 6:30 to 6:50 PM for the first show and 7:10 to 7:30 PM for the second show.
Historical Significance
The Dhauli Shanti Stupa holds immense historical significance as it marks the site of the Kalinga War, one of the bloodiest battles in Indian history. Fought in 261 BCE between Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan Empire and the state of Kalinga, the war resulted in massive loss of life and suffering. The aftermath of the war deeply affected Ashoka, leading to his profound transformation. He embraced Buddhism and adopted the principles of ahimsa (non-violence) and dharma (righteousness).
The stupa was built in the 1970s by the Japan Buddha Sangha and the Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha to honour Ashoka’s change of heart and his contributions to spreading Buddhism across Asia. The site also features rock edicts inscribed by Ashoka, which convey his messages of peace, tolerance, and compassion.
Architectural
The Dhauli Shanti Stupa is a stunning example of Buddhist architecture. The stupa is a large, dome-shaped structure painted in white, symbolizing peace and purity. It is adorned with beautiful stone carvings and sculptures depicting scenes from the life of Lord Buddha, including his birth, enlightenment, and Maha Parinirvana. The stupa is surrounded by lush greenery and offers panoramic views of the Daya River and the surrounding landscape, creating a tranquil and meditative atmosphere.
At the base of the stupa, visitors can find a replica of Ashoka’s famous lion capital, which is now the national emblem of India. The site also includes a Shanti Stupa Monastery, where monks reside and conduct daily prayers and rituals. The monastery adds to the spiritual ambiance of the place, making it a perfect spot for meditation and introspection.
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Spiritual Experience
Visiting the Dhauli Shanti Stupa is a deeply spiritual experience. The serene environment, coupled with the gentle breeze from the Daya River, creates a sense of calm and tranquility. The stupa is a place where visitors can reflect on the teachings of Buddhism, such as compassion, mindfulness, and the pursuit of inner peace. Many visitors come here to meditate, pray, or simply soak in the peaceful vibes of the place.
The stupa also serves as a reminder of the futility of war and the importance of peace and harmony in the world. It inspires visitors to embrace the values of non-violence and tolerance, just as Emperor Ashoka did centuries ago.
Nearby Attractions
While visiting the Dhauli Shanti Stupa, tourists can explore other nearby attractions in Bhubaneswar.
The Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, ancient rock-cut caves with intricate carvings, are a short distance away and offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
The Lingaraj Temple, one of the oldest and largest temples in Bhubaneswar, is another must-visit destination for its architectural grandeur and spiritual significance.
The Nandankanan Zoological Park, located on the outskirts of the city, is a popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
Festivals and Celebrations
The Dhauli Shanti Stupa is a hub of activity during Buddhist festivals, particularly Buddha Purnima, which marks the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha. During this time, the stupa is beautifully decorated with lights and flowers, and special prayers and rituals are conducted. Devotees from across the country gather here to participate in the celebrations and seek blessings.
Another significant event is the Dhauli-Kalinga Mahotsav, a cultural festival held annually to promote peace and harmony through music, dance, and art. The festival features performances by renowned artists and attracts visitors from all over the world.
How to Reach Dhauli Shanti Stupa
The Dhauli Shanti Stupa is easily accessible from Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha. It is located approximately 8 kilometers from the city center and can be reached by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is well-connected to major cities across India. The nearest railway station is Bhubaneswar Railway Station, which is also well-connected to various parts of the country.
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