Places Buddhist monuments in a social, geographical and spiritual context’ His Holiness the Dalai Lama

The story of how Buddhism set down its roots in India is enshrined within ancient stupas, temples, monasteries and caves – the silent sentinels of this enduring faith. Casting the Buddha takes the reader on a journey through the rich history of the enchanting Mahabodhi temple, intricate Sanchi stupas, Ajanta’s vibrant murals, Nalanda’s grand ruins and beyond, exploring how these spaces offered unique environments for art, philosophy, devotion and politics to intermingle. Sinha follows the trail of the Buddha’s footsteps as the latter went from enlightenment and teaching to an idea that inspired the creation of these grand monuments