1. Introduction
- What is Sanchi Stupa?: The Sanchi Stupa is one of the oldest stone structures in India and an important Buddhist monument.
- Location: Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh, India.
- Built By: Originally commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE.
- Significance: Houses relics of Gautama Buddha and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1989).
2. Architectural Features of Sanchi Stupa
✔ Main Structure:
- A large hemispherical dome (Anda) representing the dharma chakra (wheel of law).
- Built with brick and stone.
✔ Harmika:
- A square railing on top, symbolizing heaven.
✔ Chattra (Umbrella-like Structure):
- Three-tiered umbrella, representing Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha.
✔ Toranas (Gateways):
- Four elaborately carved gateways facing North, South, East, and West.
- Depict Jataka Tales, Buddha’s life, and symbols (Bodhi tree, footprints, Dharmachakra).
✔ Medhi (Circular Terrace):
- Used for circumambulation (Pradakshina Patha) by devotees.
3. History and Expansion
✔ Mauryan Period (3rd Century BCE):
- Built by Emperor Ashoka using brick and mud.
- Contained relics of Buddha.
✔ Shunga Period (2nd Century BCE):
- Enlarged by the Shunga Dynasty using stone.
- Addition of stone railings, toranas (gateways), and balustrades.
✔ Satavahana Period (1st Century CE):
- Further decorated with elaborate carvings.
- Expansion of the toranas (gateways).
✔ Gupta Period (5th Century CE):
- Minor renovations and continued Buddhist activity.
✔ Medieval Period (12th Century CE Onwards):
- Gradual decline of Buddhism led to neglect of Sanchi.
✔ Rediscovery (19th Century CE):
- Discovered by British officer General Taylor (1818).
- Restored by Sir John Marshall (1912-1919).
4. Importance of Sanchi Stupa
✔ Oldest Surviving Buddhist Structure in India.
✔ Depicts the evolution of Buddhist art and architecture.
✔ Symbol of Ashoka’s patronage to Buddhism.
✔ Major tourist and pilgrimage site.
✔ Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989.
5. MCQs on Sanchi Stupa
- Where is Sanchi Stupa located?
a) Bihar
b) Uttar Pradesh
c) Madhya Pradesh
d) Gujarat
➤ Answer: c) Madhya Pradesh - Who originally built the Sanchi Stupa?
a) Chandragupta Maurya
b) Emperor Ashoka
c) Kanishka
d) Harsha
➤ Answer: b) Emperor Ashoka - Which dynasty made major modifications to Sanchi Stupa?
a) Gupta
b) Kushan
c) Shunga
d) Rashtrakuta
➤ Answer: c) Shunga - What do the Toranas of Sanchi Stupa depict?
a) Battles of Indian kings
b) Stories from Jataka Tales and Buddha’s life
c) Vedic rituals
d) Hindu mythology
➤ Answer: b) Stories from Jataka Tales and Buddha’s life - Which British officer rediscovered Sanchi Stupa in 1818?
a) James Prinsep
b) General Taylor
c) Sir William Jones
d) John Marshall
➤ Answer: b) General Taylor
6. Subjective Questions for Exams
- Discuss the architectural significance of Sanchi Stupa.
- Explain the role of Emperor Ashoka in the construction of Sanchi Stupa.
- Describe the artistic carvings found on the Toranas of Sanchi Stupa.
- How did different dynasties contribute to the development of Sanchi Stupa?
- What is the importance of Sanchi Stupa in Buddhist history?
7. Conclusion
The Sanchi Stupa is a masterpiece of Buddhist architecture, representing the spread of Buddhism and its artistic legacy. It remains one of India’s most iconic historical monuments and a major UNESCO World Heritage Site. 🚀
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