Buddhism in Banavasi, an Archeological Treasure Trove
There was strong presence of Buddhism in Banavasi right from the time of Emperor Ashoka. Sravakayana, Mahayana and Vajrayana flourished there till 12th Cen.
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History & Life Stories
Buddhism in Kanchi – An Ancient City of Learning
Kanchi (Kanchipuram) in Tamil Nadu was the most significant Buddhist center of learning in South India. Kanchi produced world-renowned scholars and masters of Buddhism such as Bodhidharma, Dignaga, Dharmapala, Buddhaghosa, etc., spanning across Sravakayana and Mahayana. It is also one of the twenty-four power places of Vajrayana Buddhism.
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Dealing with History without Attachment
Exploration of history and archeological evidence of Buddhism in South India shows that Buddhism had been widespread in the South at least till the middle of the last millennium. While historical explorations dispel the attachment to misperceptions about heritage, we should also take care not to turn these new findings into another object of attachment and a cause for negative emotions.
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Paramabuddha (Padampa Sangye) and Ayyappa
Paramabuddha (Padampa Sangye), an Indian Buddhist Mahasiddha, taught Zhije & Chod in Tibet. his birthplace can be identified to be in Kerala, near Sabarimala hills. His connection with Ayyappa is also explored.
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Sreemoolavasam – an Ancient Buddhist Monastery in Kerala
Sreemoolavasam Mahayana Monastery was one of the ancient Buddhist centers in South India (in South Kerala) and had a famous Avalokitesvara statue, with Tara and Bhrikuti on two sides. The then Ay King Vikamaditya Varaguna was a patron of this monastery.
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Bodhidharma – a Trilogy on his Life and Teachings
A biographical sketch of Bodhidharma along with an introduction to his essential teachings. The first part narrates his life story. The second part of the trilogy delves deeper into his teachings. The final part explores Bodhidharma’s links with martial arts and healing traditions of India, China and Sri Lanka.
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Acharya Nagarjuna – the Second Buddha
One of the greatest figures of rationality and critical thinking world has ever seen. He is revered by the Mahayana Buddhists as the Second Buddha and many streams of enlightened traditions such as Zen, Dzogchen, Anuttara Tantra and Nalanda scholasticism comes through him.
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