The present work is based on the lifelong study of the monumental, numismatic, art and other archaeological remains of Haryana by the author. Inspired by his discovery of a Buddhist stupa at Chaneti in 1964 at the beginning of his career, the author sustained an interest in the Buddhist heritage of the state and discovered other stupas at Kurukshetra and Asandh. While serving as the Deputy Director of the Department of Archaeology and Museums, Haryana, in 1984 (on deputation), he explored many of the ancient sites of the state, discovered a railing pillar at Bhuna indicating the existence of a Kushan stupa there and acquired numerous art remains for the department. Remains of Buddhist images and railing from Ahrwan near Ballabhgarh were discovered subsequently. Many stupas at Kurukshetra, some referred to by the Chinese pilgrim Xuanzang have disappeared, while the remains of some others at Rohtak, Lalpur and Ad Badri have been exposed in explorations and excavations in recent decades. Ivory, terracotta, semi-precious beads and various other relics in museums and private collections were also examined by the author, taking cognizance of the discoveries made by others.
Haryana occupies an intermediary position between Gandhara and Mathura, two very important centres of Buddhist art. There is growing evidence to indicate that the Gandhara and Mathura Schools did not live in isolation and had mutual influences. Punjab and Haryana, being intermediary between the two, must have served as their meeting ground. And hence the importance of the relics discovered from this region. The present work brings to light many stupas, railings, pillars, sculptures, terracottas and other antiquities, showing clearly that Buddhism continued to live here even after it declined on the mainland after the eighth century CE.
It is hoped that this monograph will help in understanding the story of the development and decline of Buddhism and Buddhist art in northern India and will evoke further research and discussion.
