BOOK REVIEW: Udayagiri & Khandagiri by Debala Mitra
As a bookworm, wherever we go, books play a central part in our life. I'm writing this review all the way from Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India. Dubbed as the 'land of temples', Odisha is famous for its many temples and temple relics. What better way to brush up knowledge on these sites than by getting a book on them?
One of the earliest groups of Jain rock-cut shelters, the caves of Udayagiri (Hill of Sunrise) and Khandagiri (Broken Hills) command a unique position in the files of history, architecture, art and religion.
These caves are essentially dwelling retreats or cells of the Jain ascetics. Mostly excavated near the top of the ledge or boulder, they simply provided dry shelter for meditation and prayer, with very little amenities for small comforts.
This book, which was published by the Archaeological Survey of India, explains the various facades of the temple, including carvings, sculptures and the rest of the buildings on site. It proves to be a great guide for those visiting these caves.
I did visit the caves after reading this and whatever that was described in the book was portrayed on the cave walls and pillars. For those of you bookemons like me who also travel, do have this book with you when you are in Bhubaneswar. It will prove to be your trusty guide in these caves.
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