Sanchi Stupa: History, Features, Significance & More| UPSC Notes

Sanchi Stupa is an architectural marvel located in Madhya Pradesh, India. This architectural marvel, dating back to the 3rd century BCE, symbolizes the profound spiritual and cultural legacy of India. With its intricate carvings, towering gateways, and serene ambience, Sanchi Stupa attracts pilgrims, scholars, and travelers alike. It offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Indian history and culture.

This article on Sanchi Stupa UPSC aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Sanchi Stupa, focusing on its historical background, architectural features, cultural significance, and influence on art and architecture.

About the Sanchi Stupa

The Sanchi Stupa, located in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, is an iconic and highly significant Buddhist monument. Initially commissioned by Emperor Ashoka the Great in the 3rd century BCE, the stupa is part of a large complex that includes other stupas, temples, and monasteries. The Great Stupa at Sanchi is one of the oldest stone structures in India and is renowned for its exquisite carvings and elaborate gateways, known as toranas, which were added during the subsequent centuries. These gateways are intricately adorned with scenes from the Jataka tales and various events from the life of the Buddha, displaying a remarkable fusion of artistic creativity and religious symbolism. The Sanchi Stupa not only stands as a testament to the architectural and artistic prowess of ancient India but also serves as a profound symbol of the spread of Buddhism and its cultural heritage.

Historical Background of Sanchi Stupa

Sanchi Stupa was constructed during the reign of Emperor Ashoka, a prominent ruler of the Mauryan Empire. Emperor Ashoka, after embracing Buddhism, became a dedicated patron of the faith. He commissioned the construction of numerous Buddhist monuments, including the iconic Sanchi Stupa. The initial structure was a simple brick construction. However, subsequent rulers and patrons made additions and embellishments over time.

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Art and Architectural Features of Sanchi Stupa

The Great Stupa at Sanchi stands as a towering symbol of ancient craftsmanship and architectural ingenuity. Its massive hemispherical dome has a diameter of 36.5 meters and a height of 16.4 meters. It dominates the landscape, drawing visitors into its sacred embrace. Surrounding the stupa is a vedika, or fence, delineating the sacred space and separating it from the secular world. The important features of the Sanchi Stupa Architecture have been explained in brief:

Hemispherical Dome

The dome of the Great Stupa represents the cosmic Mount Meru. It symbolizes the Buddhist concept of enlightenment and the eternal nature of the universe.

Toranas (Gateways)

Adorning the entrances to the stupa are elaborately carved toranas, or gateways. They depict scenes from the life of Buddha and various Jataka tales. These intricately carved sculptures serve as visual narratives, inviting visitors to delve into the teachings of Buddhism.

Vedika (Fence)

Encircling the stupa is a vedika, a stone railing adorned with decorative motifs. It further accentuates the sacredness of the site and provides a sense of enclosure.

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Cultural Significance of the Sanchi Stupa

The Great Stupa at Sanchi played a pivotal role in the spread of Buddhism in ancient India and beyond. It was a significant center of Buddhist pilgrimage and served as a gathering place for the early Buddhist Sangha. The stupa continues to attract devout Buddhists from around the world. It offers a serene and spiritually uplifting experience.

The architectural style of Sanchi Stupa served as a template for later Buddhist monuments in India. It influenced the design and construction of stupas, viharas, and chaityas across the subcontinent. Its hemispherical dome and elaborately carved toranas, became hallmarks of Buddhist architecture in India.

During the Gupta and post-Gupta periods, the influence of Sanchi Stupa extended to the realm of art. The fusion of indigenous Indian styles with Buddhist iconography resulted in the emergence of exquisite artworks.

Beyond the shores of India, the legacy of Sanchi Stupa reverberated across Southeast Asia. From the temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia to the Borobudur temple complex in Indonesia, the influence of Sanchi Stupa can be seen in the architectural styles and artistic motifs of these iconic landmarks.

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Important Facts about Sanchi Stupa for UPSC

Some of the major facts about the Sanchi stupa include the following:

• It was the great emperor of Asoka who put the foundations of a religious centre at Sanchi. Which is probably chosen because of his Queen Devi who was the daughter of a merchant of Vidisha.
• We can see that since the 14th century sanchi remained deserted and undiscovered till 1818 when General Taylor rediscovered the site. Sir John Marshall established an archaeological museum in 1919. Which was later transformed into the present site museum at Sanchi.
• The Great sanchi stupa is the oldest stone structure in India.
• The Stupa no. 1, or we can say the ‘Great Stupa’ is the principal monument.
• It is said to be believed that the stupa of sanchi is housing the relics of Buddha.
• The stupa of sanchi, we can say, especially Stupa 1, it really has a large number of Brahmi inscriptions.
• It is said to be 36.5 m in diameter and it rises almost 21.64 meters high.
• When the emperor Ashoka once accepted Buddhism, he said that he built his first “stupa” at Sanchi and later several more. As well as the other structure of religion.
• This place is said to possess the importance of history even though the Buddha has never visited the place that is sanchi.

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Conclusion

Sanchi Stupa stands as a remarkable testament to the ancient Buddhist heritage of India. Its historical, cultural, and architectural significance makes it a cherished symbol of the country's rich past. Preserving and appreciating such ancient monuments is crucial for understanding our history, connecting with our cultural roots, and fostering a sense of national pride. The grandeur of Sanchi Stupa invites visitors to delve into its magnificence, experience the spiritual aura it exudes, and appreciate the enduring legacy it represents.

We hope the above article on Sanchi Stupa UPSC, proves to be useful for your UPSC and other competitive exams preparations. For more notes and updated details, download the Testbook App and get exam-ready in no time!