Stupa Architecture Sanchi And Bharhut

🏛️ Sanchi Stupa

Historical Background

• Location: Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh
• Commissioned by: Emperor Ashoka, 3rd century BCE
• Expanded by: Shunga and Satavahana dynasties
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Inscribed in 1989

Architectural Features

• Structure: Hemispherical dome (Anda) over relic chamber
• Base: Circular terrace with upper and lower pradakshina paths
• Harmika: Square railing atop the dome
• Chatra: Triple umbrella symbolizing Buddha, Dharma, Sangha
• Toranas: Four elaborately carved gateways depicting Jataka tales
• Material: Originally brick, later encased in stone

Artistic Significance

• Depicts scenes like Ashoka’s visit to Ramgrama, siege of Kapilavastu
• Sculptures show aniconic representations of Buddha (e.g., Bodhi tree, footprints)
• Southern gateway believed to be the oldest