Mulagandha Kuti Vihar Sarnath is situated amidst brick ruins of ancient Sarnath, and is well known for its magnificent murals and frescos. This Buddhist Temple is relatively new and therefore offers a sharp contrast to the ruins of Sarnath; this temple also stands out with its distinct architecture which is nowhere near the style followed by Buddhist architecture. The Mulagandha Kuti Vihar Sarnath in Uttar Pradesh is particularly famous for its frescos and murals.
Sarnath (also known as Mrigadava, Migadaya, Rishipattana, Isipatana) is the deer park where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma. This is also the place where the Buddhist Sangha came into existence through the enlightenment of Kondanna. Sarnath is located 13 kilometers north-east of Varanasi, in Uttar Pradesh, India.
About Mulagandha Kuti Vihar Sarnath :
Mulagandha Kuti Vihar is a welcome break from architectural monotony in Sarnath. Situated amidst brick ruins of ancient Sarnath, this Buddhist Temple is as distinct from any Buddhist Architectural pattern as chalk and cheese. This modern temple that looks truly magnificent with detailed designed patterns in its interiors has been erected by the Maha Bodhi society in the year 1931. The temple is famous for its Murals and Frescoes.
Mulagandha Kuti Vihar boasts off some of the most magnificent and colorful Frescoes that have been made by the magical hands of Kosetsu Nosu. Kosetsu Nosu happens to be Japan’s foremost painter. These Frescoes and Murals have rich repositories of Buddhist literature. While Frescoes dominate the interiors of Mulagandha, Murals are largely confined to the exteriors. They can be presently seen on walls and pillars along with the outer columns.
A huge bell dominates the entrance of the Vihar. The royal scions of Japan have gifted this mammoth bronze bell. The most striking aspect of this temple is the beautiful life-size golden image of the Buddha that greets you as you enter the sanctum. You can also see the Bodhi tree whose sapling was brought from a tree in Sri Lanka. This Bodhi tree in turn originated from the original tree under which Buddha sat in Bodh Gaya and gained enlightenment 2,500 years ago. Mahendra and Sanghmitra, son and daughter of Ashoka The Great respectively, took the sapling from this original tree to Sri Lanka during their mission.
History :
The Mulagandha Kuti Vihar Sarnath in India been erected by the Maha Bodhi society in the year 1931. The frescos on the walls of this monastery were done by the famous Kosetsu Nosu who happens to be Japan’s foremost painter.
Other Attractions in Sarnath :
Dhamekh Stupa : Of the two great stupas which adorned the city only the Dhamekh Stupa survives which belongs to the 6th century. This imposing stupa which is about 39 m high, was erected in 200 BC in the Mauryan era. This stupa was rebuilt a number of times. The geometric and floral patterns on the stupa belong to the later Gupta period.
Ashoka Pillar : This pillar was erected by the Emperor Ashoka. The pillar had his edict engraved on it. This stupa is about 15.24 m in height and had four lions as its capital which is now treasured in the archaeology museum. The lion symbolises both Ashoka’s imperial rule and the kingship of the Buddha. The four-lion capital was adopted as the emblem of the modern Indian republic.
Location: Close to Ashoka Pillar
Ideal Time to Visit: Anytime round the year, From Sunrise to Sunset
Attraction: Murals and Frescoes
How to Reach: Hire a cab or Auto from the hotel or take a rickshaw if you happen to stay in the vicinity
