Sirpur Ananda Prabhu Vihara, Chhattisgarh

Address

Sirpur Ananda Prabhu Vihara, Vatgan Rd, Sirpur Village, Mahasamund District Chhattisgarh 493445

Diety

Ananda Prabhu Vihara

Introduction

Ananda Prabhu Vihara is a Buddhist Monastery located in Sirpur Village in Mahasamund District in the Indian state of Chhattisgarh.

Puranic Significance

The Ananda Prabhu Kuti Vihara has an interesting history. It was constructed by the Buddhist Monk Anand Prabhu (also known as Ananda Prabha in some inscriptions), with the generous patronage of Hindu King Maha Sivagupta Balarjuna. This vihara was unearthed during excavations conducted between 1953 and 1955, led by M. G. Dixit. Among the discoveries was a foundation inscription, dating back to the 7th to 8th century CE.

The inscription explicitly states that this monastery was established by the Buddhist Monk Anand Prabhu during the reign of King Maha Sivagupta Balarjuna. This vihara complex comprised a temple and a monastery with 14 rooms, representing an intriguing blend of Buddhist and Hindu influences during that historical period.

Special Features

The Ananda Prabhu Kuti Vihara is a site of great historical and national significance, declared as such under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958. This vihara complex once featured a temple and a 14-room monastery, both of which are notable for their cultural and archaeological value. Within the ruins of this site, you can find a monument dedicated to Avalokiteśvara and the Makarwahini Gang. At the main entrance, there are stone pillars adorned with Dvarapalas.

The temple itself comprises an Ardha Mandapa (half hall), a pillared mandapa (ceremonial hall), and a Sanctum. Within the sanctum, there is a colossal image of Buddha standing at a height of 6.5 feet. This Buddha is accompanied by Padampani, who is depicted holding a lotus stalk in one hand and making the abhaya mudra (gesture of reassurance) with the other hand. The Buddha is also depicted in the Bhumisparsha Mudra, a posture where he touches the earth, symbolizing his enlightenment. The presence of these intricate details and the historical significance of the site make it a valuable heritage site under national protection.