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The sculptural and architectural richness of the Buddhist heritage of Orison, is simply fascinating. The Buddhist religion traces its germination, and foundation, in actual terms, from this very state. The famous Kalinga War, that led to the great Emperor Ashoka's conversion to a staunch Buddhist, was fought on the banks of the river Daya, in Orissa. Under the championship of Ashoka, it was from here, that Buddhism spread to Far Eastern countries, like China and Japan. Orissa delivered the poignant message of peace and Dhamma, non-violence, to the entire world. The state teems with the remains of several great Buddhist centres of art and learning, and other institutions of this noble religion. These had been a source of immense interest to outside visitors, from as far back as the 7th century. The noted Chinese traveller Hiuen Tsang was one of such luminaries, who had visited the state in the 7th century AD. |
