Observations on the Buddhist remains at Jaggayyapeta
By Debala Mitra
Summary
Reporting on a visit to the ruined stupa at Jaggayyapeta, the author makes several corrections to earlier descriptions. He notes that the mound’s diameter is 63 feet, correcting Burgess’ 19th‑century measurement of 31½ feet. Contrary to Burgess’ assertion that the railing had disappeared, the author identifies a fragmentary limestone upright with sockets and a tenon, suggesting that a three‑bar railing once surrounded the procession path. He also finds a drum‑frieze fragment depicting alternating Buddhas and stupas similar to Amaravati sculpture, indicating that an entablature surmounted the drum slab. Additional discoveries include lotus‑petal decorated bases of votive stupas and fragments of yasti and chatra, pointing to a caitya‑griha with small stupas. These observations refine understanding of the monument’s architecture and highlight the need for further excavation.
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Conclusion
The author’s field observations correct long‑standing misconceptions about Jaggayyapeta’s stupa. By measuring the mound, identifying railing and frieze fragments and recognising votive stupas within a caitya hall, he shows that the monument was more elaborate than previously thought. These findings call for renewed archaeological attention to recover additional architectural elements and artwork.