It was the year 261B.C. After a fierce battle, the great BMaurya dynasty's legendary king "Ashoka the Great" looked down from over the vast expanse of the battle field of Kalinga . Even after a well fought victory the sight of the aftermath of the war-death and destruction horrified him and resulted him in the great transformation. He became a Buddhist and started following Buddha’s teachings and austere ways of leading life. It was due to this awakening that Ashoka the great warrior became a follower of Buddhism and spent the rest of life spreading the teachings of Buddha far and wide that is Orrisa, India and beyond. Carvings of the head and forelegs of an elephant emerging from the rock mark the spot where the change of heart and transformation of Ashoka occurred. It is said to be the oldest rock cut sculpture in India i.e.3rd century B.C.







The rock edicts at the bottom hill suggest that the conquered area may have had two administrative headquarters. On these rock edicts, instructions to his administrators were how to rule his subjects were carved on stones which are as follows. ....." You should gain the affection of men.All men are my children, and as I desire for my children that they obtain welfare and happiness both in this world and the nent, the same do I desire for all men..." These edicts shed light on the miraculous transformator of a Great King from a ruthlessly ambitious warrior to a benevolent and highly evolved soul dedicating his later life to Buddist way of life. These inscriptions on these rocks are remarkably clear today even after2000 years of expose.

Spots around..........

Up the hill here there is an alluring white structure called the "Peace Pagoda". But it is widely known as Shanti Stupa. All around the hill the green expanse of paddy fields dancing along with the breeze is soothing.One can also see the meandering Daya River which passes by.

The"Shanti Stupa" or the "Peace Pagoda" is a Buddhist structure built jointly in 1972 by the Japan Buddha Sangh . This Stupa is visible from most points in Bhubaneshwar,the striking white dome , topped with several umbrella like protrusions, resembles a massive alien and ethereal structure. Beyond the Stupa is an old Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Dhavaleshwar, which was reconstructed in 1972 .

The ideal time to visit Dhauli is from October to March when the temperature is pleasant during the day.

How to reach at Dhauli.............

About8km south of state capitalBhubaneshwar, one can easily reach Dhauli Buddhist spot by road from Bhubaneshwar either by a auto rickshaw or hired taxi .

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