TBM Staff - Mumbai
The ancient Buddhist site at Sannati, Karnataka, has immense potential as a global heritage tourism destination, emphasised research scholar Harshakumar Kugwe at a seminar in Kalaburagi. Discovered nearly 70 years ago, Sannati houses the Adholoka Maha Chaitya (Great Stupa of the Netherworlds) and the only surviving sculpture of Emperor Asoka with his name inscribed. Kugwe lamented the lack of governmental efforts to develop the site into a world-renowned heritage destination despite its historical significance.
Kugwe highlighted the unique historical value of Sannati, citing evidence of Emperor Asoka’s direct association with the site. Asoka is believed to have initiated the first phase of the Maha Stupa’s construction and enshrined Buddhist relics there. The stupa underwent further enhancements by Hinayana and Mahayana Buddhists, showcasing its cultural evolution over centuries. Kugwe also pointed out that Kanaganahalli is home to the only Asoka sculpture explicitly identifying him as “Raya Asoko,” making it a site of unparalleled historical importance.
The seminar, organised by Karnataka Rajya Dalit Sangharsh Samithi, also addressed the cultural distortion of Buddhist and Sharana ideologies by communal forces. Writer R.K. Hudgi condemned attempts to project Gautama Buddha as an avatar of Vishnu, emphasising the importance of preserving historical accuracy. He urged scholars and the public to combat these distortions and uphold the true essence of Buddhist philosophy.
Participants called for greater efforts to bring Sannati’s heritage to the global stage. While numerous academic studies have been conducted on the site, little has been done to engage the general public or tourists. Kugwe and other speakers stressed the need for initiatives promoting heritage tourism, which would not only highlight Sannati’s rich history but also boost local economic development.
The seminar concluded with calls to honor the Buddhist ideals championed by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and to preserve Sannati as a cultural and historical treasure. Prominent figures, including Dalit leaders and Buddhist writers, expressed their commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of the site’s significance and advocating for its recognition on an international level.
