Colossal Discoveries at Ratnagiri: ASI unearthed a colossal Buddha head (3-4 feet), a giant palm (5 feet), an ancient wall, and inscribed relics dating back to the 8th-9th Century AD that highlights Ratnagiri's significance as a Buddhist learning center rivaling Nalanda.

• About Historical Context: Buddhism in Odisha dates back to Emperor Ashoka's invasion of 

  Kalinga (261 BCE), which led to his conversion to Buddhism.

  o Kalinga's trade links popularized Buddhism across Southeast Asia.

  • Ratnagiri - A Center of Learning: Active between the 5th and 13th centuries, with construction peaking in the 7th-10th centuries.

    o Known for Mahayana and Tantrayana sects, it once rivaled Nalanda in Buddhist scholarship.

    o Possibly visited by Hiuen Tsang (638-639 AD) during his Odisha travels.

    • Previous Excavations: Early excavations (1958-61) uncovered a brick stupa, three monastic complexes, and hundreds of stupas.

    o Led by archaeologist Debala Mitra, the findings emphasized Ratnagiri's historical richness.

    • Renewed Excavations: ASI aims to explore partially visible structures, ceramic assemblages, and possible chaitya complexes.

    o Focus on studying the cultural and material links with Southeast Asia.

    • Odisha's Maritime Legacy: Ancient Kalinga traded spices, silk, gold, and other goods with regions like Bali, Java, Sumatra, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar.

    o The annual Baliyatra festival commemorates these 2,000-year-old links.

    • Flourishing Buddhism under Bhaumakaras: Buddhism thrived during the 8th-10th century under the Bhaumakara dynasty, with Ratnagiri as a major hub.