Notes and Study material for Exams
The Dipavamsa: A Chronicle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka The Dipavamsa, meaning “The Island Chronicle,” is a Pali language chronicle that stands as a foundational text in the history of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Composed in the 4th century CE, it narrates the arrival of Buddhism in the island nation, tracing its lineage back to … Read more
Unveiling the Mind: A Deep Dive into the Abhidhamma Pitaka The Abhidhamma Pitaka, the third and final basket of Buddhist scriptures, stands as a unique and profound exploration of the human mind and its intricate workings. While the Sutta Pitaka focuses on the Buddha’s teachings and the Vinaya Pitaka outlines monastic rules, the Abhidhamma Pitaka … Read more
The Lion Capital of Ashoka: A Symbol of Peace and Power The Lion Capital of Ashoka, a magnificent architectural masterpiece, stands as a testament to the legacy of Emperor Ashoka, the great Mauryan ruler who reigned in India from 268 to 232 BCE. This iconic structure, originally placed atop the Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath, embodies … Read more
Bhasa: The Enigma of Ancient Indian Theatre Bhasa, a name that echoes through the annals of Sanskrit literature, remains shrouded in mystery. While his works are celebrated for their dramatic brilliance and poetic depth, the playwright himself is a shadowy figure, his life and times a subject of intense scholarly debate. This article delves into … Read more
Literary Sources of Ancient India: Unveiling the Tapestry of a Civilization Ancient India, a land steeped in history and culture, boasts a rich literary heritage that offers invaluable insights into its diverse society, beliefs, and practices. These literary sources, spanning centuries and genres, provide a vibrant tapestry of information about the lives, thoughts, and aspirations … Read more
Deciphering the Past: A Journey Through the Ashoka Inscriptions The reign of Emperor Ashoka, the third ruler of the Mauryan dynasty in ancient India, marked a pivotal moment in the subcontinent’s history. His legacy, however, extends far beyond his military conquests and administrative prowess. Ashoka’s reign witnessed a profound transformation in his personal beliefs, leading … Read more
The Majjhima Nikaya: A Middle Path Through Buddhist Teachings The Majjhima Nikaya, one of the five Nikayas (collections) of the Sutta Pitaka (Discourse Basket) in the Pali Canon, stands as a cornerstone of Theravada Buddhism. This collection of 152 suttas (discourses) attributed to the Buddha himself offers a rich tapestry of teachings, exploring the core … Read more
The Golden Age of the Cholas: Rajaraja I and Rajendra I The Chola dynasty, one of the most powerful and influential empires in South India, reached its zenith under the reigns of Rajaraja I (985-1014 CE) and his son, Rajendra I (1014-1044 CE). These two rulers, known for their military prowess, administrative acumen, and patronage … Read more
The Literary Landscape of Buddhism: A Journey Through Key Texts Buddhism, a philosophy and religion that originated in ancient India, has left an indelible mark on human thought and practice for over two and a half millennia. Its vast and diverse literary tradition, spanning centuries and continents, offers a rich tapestry of insights into the … Read more
A Journey Through the Pages: Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Buddhist Literature Buddhism, a philosophy and way of life that originated in ancient India, has left an indelible mark on human thought and culture. Its teachings, centered around the pursuit of enlightenment and liberation from suffering, have resonated across continents and millennia, finding expression in … Read more