Casting the Buddha

Well-written and carefully researched ... a fresh, thoughtful look at Buddhism and its monuments in India' Professor Susan L. Huntington, Distinguished University Professor Emeritus, Ohio State University A sweeping 2,500-year journey through India’s most sacred Buddhist monuments The story of Buddhism in India is reflected in both its teachings and the sacred stones, stupas and caves that span the Indian landscape – each one a silent witness to its timeless power. From the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, where the Buddha found enlightenment, to Sarnath, where he shared his wisdom for the first time, these places are not merely relics of the past – they are living, breathing testaments to a spiritual path that has transcended centuries and borders, offering serenity and inspiration to all who seek them. In Casting the Buddha, Shashank Shekhar Sinha brings these venerated spaces to life, from the intricate stupas of Sanchi to the painted caves of Ajanta, where art and devotion converge. At Nalanda, where scholars once pondered the mysteries of existence, the essence of Buddhist thought is revealed, offering a glimpse into the intellectual legacy of the faith. Shaped over centuries by emperors, merchants, monks, and pilgrims, these monuments are far more than architectural marvels; they are vibrant centres of creativity and spiritual devotion. Through these sacred spaces, Sinha traces the evolution of Buddhism, from its early roots to the flourishing Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions. Through lucid prose and evocative photographs, Casting the Buddha weaves together the stories of these sacred monuments, showing how they have shaped – and been shaped by – the history of Buddhism. It presents a moving account of the enduring significance of these ancient sites, which continue to inspire awe and reflection in all who walk their paths.