Exploring the traces of a left-behind culture is an interesting way to understand how the place has been shaped by various influences throughout the years. Kerala has always been receptive to foreign ideologies and cultures. Kerala had also been hit by a wave of Buddhism and the remnants of it are found in many places in the state. Karumadi Kuttan temple located in Alappuzha is believed to have a history that dates around the 9th – 14th century. The shrine is dedicated to Lord Buddha and has an ancient black granite statue of Buddha, known as the Karumadi Kuttan, which is a fine example of early Buddhist art in India.
The site has been excavated several times, revealing artefacts and structures that provide valuable insights into the history of Buddhism in India. It has been the subject of several archaeological studies over the years. These studies aim to shed light on the temple’s history and its role in the spread of Buddhism in the region. The temple and its surroundings are considered to be a rich source of information to study Buddhist art, architecture and culture. The site is now protected by the Archaeological Survey of India owing to its historical value.
