CANDI BOROBUDUR
The world’s biggest Buddhist monument, which was built in the 9th century during the reign of Syailendra dynasty. It is located in the Kedu Valley, in the southern part of central Java, Indonesia. The temple was built in order to look like a microcosm of the universe. It is a three dimensional representation of the Mandala, where cosmic power is believed to entre the centre, then radiating outwards.
An incorporation of indigenous scenes and elements is present so as to make it unique to Indonesia, yet the Gupta architecture involved reflects india’s influence in its design. It was built in three tiers that are very symbolic of Buddhism, as they depict the three phases in the attainment of Nirvana: 1) A pyramidal base with five square terraces that represent Kamadhatu, the world of desires, where we are bound to our desires 2) The trunk of a cone with three circular platforms represent Rupadhatu, the world of forms, where one abandons their desires but are still bound to name and form. 3) A monumental stupa located at the top represents the formless world, where there is no longer either name or form. The base and the balustrades that enclose the square terraces are decorated in reliefs, that have been sculpted in the stone, thus illustrating the different phases of the soul’s progression towards redemption, and episodes from the life of Buddha. |
how does this show the spread of indian culture in southeast asia?
Candi Borobudur was built to represent a Mandala, which is a Hindu concept. Candi Borobudur is by far one of the most iconic Buddhist monuments, and thus the representation of a Mandala on this temple clearly shows the extent of Indian influence on Java, and Southeast Asia.
With the overall depiction of this temple as a Mandala, Candi Borobudur is a good example that indicates the adaptation of some Hindu practices in the daily lives of Southeast Asians. It also further emphasizes the spread of Buddhism in Southeast Asia alongside Hindusim, during the period of Indianisation.
With the overall depiction of this temple as a Mandala, Candi Borobudur is a good example that indicates the adaptation of some Hindu practices in the daily lives of Southeast Asians. It also further emphasizes the spread of Buddhism in Southeast Asia alongside Hindusim, during the period of Indianisation.