Introduction

Following the collapse of the Gupta Empire in the sixth century CE, Magadha, which includes the modern regions of Bihar and Bengal, remained largely unified. This was in contrast to the western regions, where numerous small Rajput principalities emerged.

1.Rise of the Palas: By the eighth century, the Pala dynasty came to power in Magadha. Dharmapala, the second Pala ruler, notably expanded the empire by defeating the Pratiharas, thus consolidating a significant realm.

2.Agriculture and Trade: The prosperity of Dharmapala’s empire was primarily based on the fertile agricultural lands of the Ganges plain and robust international trade, creating a wealthy and sustainable economic base.

Bodhgaya: The Heart of Buddhist Pilgrimage

Bodhgaya is revered as the site where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment under the bodhi tree, becoming the Buddha. It remains one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites.

Architectural History of the Mahabodhi Temple