Upali Ordination Hall

The Upali Ordination Hall is a significant Buddhist structure located in Myanmar, situated midway between the historically important cities of Bagan and Nyaung U. It is particularly celebrated for its remarkably preserved interior frescoes, which are a testament to the artistry of the Konbaung Dynasty.

History and Construction

The ordination hall's origins trace back to the reign of King Anawrahta, a pivotal monarch in Burmese history. Its consecration was a notable event, performed by four distinguished monks who had journeyed from Ceylon (present-day Sri Lanka), with Upali Thera leading the delegation. This connection to Upali Thera is believed to be the source of the hall's name. While its foundation dates to this early period, the exterior of the hall saw modifications during the reign of King Bodawpaya. The most striking artistic feature, the interior frescoes, were undertaken much later, with work commencing on March 4, 1794, and concluding a year later in 1795.

Interior Frescoes

The interior artwork of the Upali Ordination Hall is divided into three distinct tiers, each serving a unique narrative and didactic purpose. The highest tier is adorned with depictions of the 28 past Buddhas, all rendered in the bhūmisparśa mudra, a gesture signifying enlightenment and touching the earth. The middle tier showcases vibrant scenes drawn from the Jataka tales, which recount the previous lives of the Buddha. The lowest tier focuses on the practicalities of monastic life, illustrating the rehabilitation of a Buddhist monk who had transgressed the Vinaya, the monastic code of conduct. These frescoes provide invaluable insights into Buddhist cosmology, narrative traditions, and monastic discipline as understood during the Konbaung period.