Madhya Pradesh: BRICS Delegates Mesmerised by Sanchi’s Rich Buddhist Heritage and Architectural Grandeur: Describe It as Remarkable Centre of Peace and Spirituality
Representatives from BRICS countries visited the World Heritage Site of Sanchi in Raisen district on Saturday to experience India’s rich Buddhist heritage and architectural legacy.
A 42-member delegation from Brazil, China, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Russia and other BRICS countries visited Jambu Dweep Park, the museum and the Buddhist Stupas, accompanied by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. Madhya Pradesh Minister of State for Culture (Independent Charge) Dharmendra Lodhi also accompanied the delegation.
The BRICS delegates were welcomed upon their arrival at Sanchi in accordance with Indian traditions, with Collector Arun Kumar Vishwakarma leading the reception and applying tilak to the visiting delegates.
The delegates were visibly impressed by the thousands-of-years-old Indian architectural heritage, Buddhist culture carved into stone and the Buddhist Stupas associated with the messages of peace and compassion of Lord Buddha. They described Sanchi’s historical heritage as a remarkable example of India’s rich cultural traditions.
The delegates closely explored the Main Stupa and other ancient structures in the complex, including the gateways, pillars and intricate sculptures. Experts and guides provided detailed information about the history of Sanchi, the spread of Buddhism and the architectural features of its monuments.
Story of Buddhist Culture Comes Alive in Stone
The intricate carvings on the gateways of the Buddhist Stupa particularly fascinated the BRICS delegates. The sculptures depict Buddhist traditions, Jataka tales, nature, animals and birds, as well as various aspects of contemporary social life.
The delegates were informed that the Buddhist monuments at Sanchi date back to the era of Mauryan Emperor Ashoka, when Sanchi emerged as an important centre of Buddhism. The foreign delegates showed keen interest in Sanchi’s history and architectural heritage. They also photographed the monuments and explored different parts of the complex.
Witnessing Thousands-Year-Old Heritage an Unforgettable Experience
Sanchi holds not only historical but also profound spiritual significance. The World Heritage Site, associated with Lord Buddha’s messages of peace, non-violence, compassion and humanity, made a special impression on the BRICS delegates.
The delegates described Sanchi as a historic heritage site where one can experience both the cultural legacy of ancient India and the message of world peace. They said learning about a historical site through books and photographs is a different experience, but witnessing thousands-of-years-old heritage at Sanchi in person is truly unforgettable.
Light and Sound Show Brings Buddhist History and Art Alive
After visiting the Stupas, the BRICS delegation experienced the rich Buddhist history and art through a light-and-sound show at the Sanchi complex in the evening. Through a 3D presentation, the delegates were given a vivid portrayal of Buddhist culture, the life and philosophy of Gautama Buddha and his teachings. The light-and-sound show effectively showcased the life of Lord Buddha, his renunciation, attainment of enlightenment, compassion, message of peace and teachings on humanity.