The huge Maurya-era Buddhist stupa was partially excavated in 1938–39 and the structure could be larger than the Great Stupa at Sanchi.
- It is a centrally protected archaeological site under Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
About Stupa
- A stupa was originally a mound containing relics of Buddha, his bodily remains or objects associated with him.
- The tradition of building stupas may have been pre-Buddhist.
- According to the Ashokavadana, Ashoka distributed portions of Buddha's relics to important towns and ordered stupas to be constructed over them.
Components of Stupa
- Anda: Hemispherical mound; evolved from the original earth mound.
- Harmika: Balcony-like structure above the anda; represented abode of gods.
- Yashti: Pole rising from the harmika.
- Chhatri: Umbrella over the yashti.
- Vedika/Railing: Separated sacred space from secular world.
- Torana: Gateway, often richly carved.
- Pradakshinapatha: Circumambulatory path around the stupa.
Types of Stupas
- Relic Stupa: Contains relics/remains of Buddha, Buddhas, disciples or saints.
- Ex: Piprahwa Stupa, UP
- Object Stupa: Preserves sacred objects associated with Buddha/Buddhist teachers.
- Ex: Kesariya Stupa, Bihar
- Commemorative Stupa: : Commemorates important events/places in Buddha’s life.
- Ex: Dharmarajika Stupa at Sarnath, Ashokan Stupa at Bodh Gaya.
- Symbolic Stupa: Symbolises Buddha and his Dhamma, with or without relics.
- Votive Stupa: Small stupas built by pilgrims/devotees at important Buddhist centres.
