Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Jun 9: In a remarkable archaeological discovery, a rare sculpture of Buddha and a complex of caves have been unearthed near the sacred pond of Shri Manjunatha Temple in Kadri, Mangaluru. The find was made during a recent exploration with permission from the temple authorities.

The sculpture, found submerged in the pond, depicts Buddha seated in a meditative posture (dhyana mudra) on a lotus pedestal. The right arm of the statue is entirely broken, and the left arm rests between the crossed legs. A partially visible uttariya (upper robe) drapes across the left shoulder and chest. The head of the sculpture is missing.

Sculptures of meditative Buddhas on lotus pedestals can also be seen on the lower panels of the pillars in the temple's outer premises, confirming that the figure is indeed that of Buddha. The statue measures 68 cm in height and 48 cm in width and closely resembles one discovered in Mushira Wado, Goa. Experts suggest that this sculpture dates back to the 4th–6th century AD. A socket at the base of the lotus pedestal indicates it may have once been the main deity of Kadri.

Three caves carved out of laterite stone have been found on a hillock above the temple pond. The entrance of the right-side cave resembles the grand entrances of megalithic tombs, and its structure mirrors that of such burial chambers. The other two caves, located on elevated platforms, have square entrances and interiors that are plain and austere. Each cave consists of a single chamber with niches likely meant for lamps, indicating residential or meditative use. Based on architectural style and design, the caves are also estimated to date back to the 4th–6th century AD.

These findings push Kadri’s historical significance back to the 4th–5th century AD. Scholars believe Kadri initially served as a Mahayana Buddhist centre, which later evolved into a Vajrayana hub before ultimately becoming a major Nath tradition centre in South India.

Prof T Murugeshi, retired associate professor of ancient history and archaeology at Mulki Sundararama Shetty College, Shirva, shared this information and acknowledged the support of temple administrator Arun Kumar and those involved in the exploration — PhD scholar Shreyas Kolpe from Manipal University, lecturer Shreyas Bantakallu and student Ravindra Kushwa from MSRS College Shirva, and postgraduate student Karthik from Mangalore University.