Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh

The revival of structures in Sarnath. Monasteries and artifacts in the museum to remember the historic elements in a better way. Making the written history graphic with a modern touch.

Sarnath is the site where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, or where Buddha preached his first sermon. It is also the place where the original Sangha was formed.

Monestery no. 5 at Sarnath of Gupta period, excavated in 1852 has remnants for 28 apartments and a central courtyard with a well. It was said to be 2-3 stories in height with terracotta ceiling with a central room as a reception area. We tried to re-imagine it according to the written evidence available.

Sarnath has a large collection of sculptures, King Ashoka was the one to use stone for scriptures. Animals like bulls, lions, elephants and horses are often carved to symbolize different aspects. The sculptures of animals are represented naturalistically, full of life, you can tell that they have been keenly and lovingly observed.

'Chatra' (Umbrella) is a vertical shed made of stone for statues of Buddhist saints. This perticular one is the Chatra of 'Bala Bodhisattva'. Today it is showcased in the museum of Sarnath Varanasi, besides the statue of Bala Bodhisattva.