Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c16.32

c16.32

In spite of its alterations, however, from the general shape of the temple at Budh Gaya it is possible to gain some idea of the type of architecture that flourished in the Gangetic region during the first millennium, especially in the character of its towers, which were one of the features of the style So frequent were these tall structures, each marking a vihara or monastery, that they are credited with having given the country anciently known as Magadha, its name of Bihar (Vihara). Such fragments of the monasteries that have been excavated, together with the temple at Budh Gaya, show that they represent an architectural development of remarkable power and dignity, but very often of a picturesque and romantic order, in which the qualities of symmetry, regularity of planning, and balanced composition were not consistently observed. The almost complete disappearance of these immense sanctuaries was partly due to the somewhat impermanent nature of their materials and construction, which, under the severe climatic conditions, would need constant repairs But the main cause of their decay was undoubtedly brought about by the decline of the Buddhist faith, by which the monasteries were gradually deserted, and finally became empty ruins. From the number and extent of the mounds, now all that is left of these one time populous centres of religious life, it is clear that even the face of the country was very different from what it is at the present day. The multiple fanes of these great sanctuaries reared themselves majestically in scores of different places, and were a centre of attraction not only to the inhabitants but also to devotees from distant lands.