Adi Gaya, Dhautpada, and Mundaprshtha devi

Item

Title
Adi Gaya, Dhautpada, and Mundaprshtha devi
Brief history
Adi-gaya is supposed to be the oldest place in Gaya. It has a stone upon which pinda-dana is performed. Dhautapada seems like an early modern construction. Mundaprishtha has early medieval sculptures.
Local tradition
Shraddha, pinda-dana
Structure
Adi-Gaya: Yellow plastered brick courtyard, divided into several spaces on different levels, to the east of shikhara temple with a two-story single chamber design. There is an open square immediately in front of temple. In front of courtyard, to the east, is a small mandapa with six pillars five feet high, two with carvings.
Dhautpada: Square-roofed platform with natural stone emerging from the floor, with a roof of stone sheets and steel beams.
Mundaprishtha: Single chamber with open rectangular courtyard, south of which was an open space for pilgrims to perform their pinda-dana and stay.
Location
Southwest of Vishnupad Temple over top of adjoining hill
Geographic coordinates (latitude, longitude)
24°46'37.76", 85°00'24.12"
Approachs
Through settlement to the southwest of Vishnupad Temple
Airport
Gaya
Railway station
Gaya
Bus stand
Gaya
Topographical features
On top of adjoining hill
Building materials
Stone
brick
Usage
Adi Gaya: Under someone’s control, but appears abandoned
Dhautpada: appears abandoned.
Mundaprishtha: active worship.
Ownership
Key to Adi-Gaya was with family living next door. Dhaut-pada shows no signs of ownership. Mundaprishta under control of pujari, Manju Tiwari.
Protection status
Adi-Gaya and Mundaprstha devi were well-protected. Dhaut-pada unprotected.
Conservation assessment
All three need conservation, especially Adi-Gaya.
Subject
Altars, Vedic
Omeka identifier
sci-site03-01
Present condition
Adi-Gaya is dilapidated. Dhaut-pada is in good shape but appears to be unmaintained. Mundaprstha devi is well protected