#Thread on 'Unakoti' ‘Shaiba’ (Saivite) pilgrimage, Tripura dating 7th – 9th centuries
#Archaeology
Unakoti means one less than a crore and it is said that these many rock cut carvings are available here. It is the prime tourist spot of Unakoti district, Tripura in the Kailashahar Subdivision in the North-eastern Indian State of Trip
#Archaeology
As per Hindu folklore, when Lord Shiva was going to Kashi along with one crore gods and goddesses he made a night halt at this location. He asked all the gods and goddesses to wake up before sun rise and proceed for Kashi.
#Archaeology
It is believed, that God and Goddess could not wake up on time and were turned into 1 Crore Stone carvings. These carvings are located at a beautifully landscaped forest area with green vegetation all around which add to the beauty of the carvings.
#Archaeology
Among the rock cut carvings, the central Shiva head and gigantic Ganesha figures deserve special mention.
#Archaeology
The central Shiva head known as ‘Unakotiswara Kal Bhairava’ is about 30 feet high including an embroidered head-dress which itself is 10 feet high.
#Archaeology
On each side of the head-dress of the central Shiva, there are two full size female figures – one of Durga standing on a lion and another female figure on the other side.
#Archaeology
Idols at site
#Archaeology
In addition three enormous images of Nandi Bull are found half buried in the ground. There are various other stone as well as rock cut images at Unakoti.
#Archaeology
Every year a big fair popularly known as ‘Ashokastami Mela’ is held in the month of April 8th day (Ashtami) of Shukla Paksha (moon in waxing phase) in the Chaitra month which is visited by thousands of pilgrims.
#Archaeology
Miscellaneous sculptures
#Archaeology
Overall view of Unakoti
#Archaeology
GemsOfINDOLOGY
@GemsOfINDOLOGY
In Centre, busting both Raita and Lafda wingers coz they both hide truth. You can help me patreon.com/gemsofindology