Sunken structures

As you walk around this ancient city of temples, you’ll often come across idols that seem to have sunk below the ground level, as if they’ve been gradually swallowed by the earth. These sunken structures have always fascinated me, and I’ve wondered why they’re like that. So far, I haven’t found a clear answer, but there are some interesting theories.

One popular explanation is that these idols are cursed. According to local legends, they sank into the earth as a form of punishment and will only rise again once their period of retribution is over. We’ve all grown up with stories where even powerful gods face consequences for their mistakes, and perhaps these sunken idols are part of that narrative.

Then there’s another, more technical perspective. Installing idols in temples is a delicate and highly ritualistic process, sometimes involving alignment with cosmic elements. It’s possible that these idols were placed at specific elevations or positions to fulfill certain religious or spiritual requirements. Over time, they might have shifted or sunken as part of this alignment, though this explanation is more speculative.

What I don't believe, however, is the idea that earthquakes or natural disasters caused them to sink. While it’s true that this region is prone to seismic activity, I feel like there’s more to the story than just a physical explanation.

If you know more or have a different theory, I’d love to hear it! This is one of those mysteries that keeps pulling me back, and I’m eager to learn the truth.

Sunken Dharmadhatu