History
Abeyadana meaning the “abandoned jewel” was a follower of Mahayana Buddhism since the frescoes on the outer walls can be seen with images of the Hindus Gods like Indra. Shiva and Vishnu. The inner shrine contains a large. brick-built seated Buddha. but the fine frescoes are the main interest here. Of the many Buddha niches lining the walls. most are empty. Some contain bodhi-sattvas and Hindu showing a Mahayana influence accredited to the tastes of Kyanzittha’s Bengali bride.
It is one of those monuments famous for their fine frescos. The striking feature of its frescos is that the pictures on the inner wall depict Mahayana. Theravada Buddhist and Brahmanic episodes. Devas and their vehicles were also presented in the pictures. On the western wall are pictures showing the Lord Buddha giving sermons to the monks. the royalty and the court and the people presented separately. On the outer walls are the pictures of Bodisatta (Buddha to be) sitting on a lotus throne with one leg up and the other down. and two attendants by his side. Above it are the pictures of Mahayana themes and those of recluses living in the caves. On the outer wall of the image house are paintings in which the Guardian goddess of the Yamuna River and that of the Ganges River. Wind god. Moon god. Vishnu. Siva. Brahma and their vehicles were presented. On the wall at the northern entrance are the pictures presenting 550 Jatakas. with captions in ink.
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