The Pala dynasty ruled the region of Bengal and Bihar for abou | Mains

The Pala dynasty ruled the region of Bengal and Bihar for about 400 years ago. Most of the subjects controlled by palas in the area were Hindus but pala-ruled areas became one of the last strongholds of Buddhism in India.

Contributions of Palas in spreading Buddhism:

1. Spreading Buddhism

● Created an environment for Buddhishm to thrive by helping setup and promote monasteries.

● Sending missionaries to spread Buddhism in other parts of the world. Example: Tibet

● Promoting peaceful exchange of Ideas between different faiths. Example: Vajrayana Philosophy.

2. Art and Architecture:

● Various stupas, viharas and chaityas were constructed like in Nalanda and Vikramshila.

● Various manuscripts related to Buddhism were constructed and promoted.

● The earliest example of miniature painting in India is that from Buddhist religious text in the pala-period.

Under Pala patronage, a distinctive form of art arose, various sculptures were made that were taken to various parts of the globe which helped promote and spread Buddhism in various parts of the world. Thus, the significant contributions of the pala period are distinguishable.