Archaeologists excavating the hillocks of northern Odisha have uncovered a previously unknown Buddhist monastery (Vihara) dating back to the 5th century CE. The site is notable for its 'Vandhara' style of architecture, a transitionary form between late Gandharan and local Kalingan styles. The most striking find is a series of intact stucco friezes depicting Jataka tales with unprecedented detail.
This discovery confirms that Odisha was a major hub for Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism, serving as a school for traveling monks from Tibet and China. Excavations are continuing to locate the main assembly hall and a suspected subterranean scriptorium.