70^th BPSC Mains

Approach Briefly introduce the Pala art and architecture. Discuss the relationship of Pala art and architecture with Buddhism. Conclude suitably.

Introduction

The Pala dynasty (8th–12th centuries CE) was a major patron of Buddhism, especially the Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions. Their rule in Bengal and Bihar saw the flourishing of Pala art and architecture, which played a crucial role in preserving Buddhist traditions. The artistic achievements of this period were not only limited to India but also influenced Buddhist art in Nepal, Tibet, and Southeast Asia.

Body

Architectural Features and Buddhist Connection

• Viharas (Monastic Universities):
  
  • Centers for Buddhist education and residence of monks.
  • Major viharas included Nalanda, Vikramshila, Odantapuri, and Somapura (Bangladesh).
  • Structures were rectangular with an open courtyard, surrounded by rooms and verandas.
  • Example: Vikramshila Mahavihara, built by Dharmapala, had ornate gateways and terracotta decorations with Buddhist themes.
• Chaityas (Prayer Halls):
  
  • Evolved from rock-cut chaityas of earlier periods, transitioning to brick and stone-built structures.
  • Bangla-style roofs became a distinctive feature.
  • Key Example: Odantapuri Mahavihara Chaitya, decorated with Jataka tales and Buddhist iconography.

• Stupas (Religious Monuments):
  
  • Built for Buddhist worship, housing relics of monks and scholars.
  • Somapura Mahavihara Stupa (Bangladesh): One of the largest in South Asia, with an octagonal base and intricate terracotta panels.
  • Nalanda Stupas: Known for their ornate terracotta plaques depicting Buddhist teachings.

• Temples and Hindu Influence:
  
  • Although Buddhist rulers, Palas also built Hindu temples in the Vanga Nagara style.
  • Example: Vishnupad Temple (Gaya), Cave Temple of Kahalgaon (Bhagalpur).
  • Significance: Showcases religious inclusivity in Pala art despite their strong Buddhist patronage.

Sculpture and Buddhist Themes

• Bronze Sculptures:
  
  • Used cire perdue (lost-wax) technique, with intricate front detailing.
  • Depictions of Buddha, Avalokiteshvara, Tara, and Hindu deities like Vishnu and Balarama.
  • Example: Crowned Buddha from Kurkihar (Gaya), largest standing Buddha at Sultanganj.
• Stone Sculptures:
  
  • Made from black basalt stone from Santhal Pargana and Munger.
  • Highly detailed ornamentation but often lacked detailing on the back.
  • Famous sculptors: Dhiman and Vitpala, pioneers in Buddhist iconography.
• Terracotta Art:
  
  • Used to decorate temples and viharas, depicting Buddha’s life, Jataka tales, and tantric deities.
  • Example: Terracotta art at Vikramshila Mahavihara, Paharpur.

Pala Period Painting and Buddhist Influence

• Manuscript Paintings (Miniature Paintings):
  
  • Found in Buddhist texts like Astasahasrika Prajnaparamita and Pancharaksha.
  • Painted on palm leaves and copper plates, using red, blue, black, and white as dominant colors.
  • Influence: Inspired Buddhist paintings in Nepal, Tibet, and Java.
• Mural Paintings (Wall Paintings):
  
  • Decorated Mahaviharas, chaityas, and temples, depicting Buddhist themes and daily life.
  • Example: Sarai Sthal mural at Nalanda, showcasing a woman applying makeup, highlighting naturalistic depiction.
  • Technique: Influenced by Ajanta and Bagh cave paintings, with expressive postures and soft figures.

Conclusion

The Pala period was the golden age of Buddhist art, crucial for preserving and expanding Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions. Despite political instability, Pala artists made significant contributions to architecture, sculpture, and painting, influencing Buddhist art in Nepal, Tibet, and Southeast Asia. Although its decline coincided with Buddhism’s fall in India, its legacy continues to shape Buddhist visual culture worldwide.