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Questions and Answers
When was the Great Stupa at Sanchi originally commissioned?
When was the Great Stupa at Sanchi originally commissioned?
Who discovered the Sanchi Stupa in 1818?
Who discovered the Sanchi Stupa in 1818?
What is the main purpose of the Vedika at Sanchi Stupa?
What is the main purpose of the Vedika at Sanchi Stupa?
What is the significance of the Harmika at Sanchi Stupa?
What is the significance of the Harmika at Sanchi Stupa?
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Which part of Sanchi Stupa is a semi-circular structure?
Which part of Sanchi Stupa is a semi-circular structure?
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In which Indian state is Sanchi Stupa located?
In which Indian state is Sanchi Stupa located?
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What is the purpose of the Vedika in the Sanchi Stupa?
What is the purpose of the Vedika in the Sanchi Stupa?
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Which part of the stupa is known as Anda?
Which part of the stupa is known as Anda?
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What is the significance of the Chhatra in the context of the Sanchi Stupa?
What is the significance of the Chhatra in the context of the Sanchi Stupa?
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What is the purpose of the Sopan in relation to the Medhi at the Sanchi Stupa?
What is the purpose of the Sopan in relation to the Medhi at the Sanchi Stupa?
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Where is Sarnath located in India?
Where is Sarnath located in India?
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Who constructed the Stupa at Sarnath?
Who constructed the Stupa at Sarnath?
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Who originally commissioned the Great Stupa at Sanchi?
Who originally commissioned the Great Stupa at Sanchi?
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When was the Sanchi Stupa discovered after being abandoned for 600 years?
When was the Sanchi Stupa discovered after being abandoned for 600 years?
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Who discovered the Sanchi Stupa in 1818?
Who discovered the Sanchi Stupa in 1818?
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What is the literal meaning of 'stupa'?
What is the literal meaning of 'stupa'?
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Which epic poem is referred to as the 'Ramayana of the Buddhists'?
Which epic poem is referred to as the 'Ramayana of the Buddhists'?
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Where is the Sanchi Stupa located?
Where is the Sanchi Stupa located?
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Study Notes
Great Stupa at Sanchi
- Originally commissioned during the reign of Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE.
- Discovered in 1818 by British officer Major John Marshall.
- Primary purpose of the Vedika is to enclose the stupa and act as a boundary marker for the sacred space.
Architectural Features
- The Harmika is a square railing structure placed on top of the stupa, symbolizing the abode of the gods.
- The semi-circular structure of the stupa is referred to as the Anda, representing the universe.
- The Chhatra is a parasol-like structure that signifies the honor and protection of the stupa; it often symbolizes the spiritual hierarchy.
Site and Archaeology
- Sanchi Stupa is located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India.
- The Sopan serves as a flight of steps leading to the Medhi, the circular platform that surrounds the stupa.
- The Sanchi Stupa was rediscovered in 1818 after being abandoned for approximately 600 years.
Related Cultural Context
- Sarnath, where a notable stupa is located, is also in India. It is the site where Buddha delivered his first sermon.
- The stupa at Sarnath was constructed under the patronage of Emperor Ashoka.
- The term 'stupa' literally means a mound, referring to its burial mound shape.
- The 'Ramayana of the Buddhists' is often referred to as the "Jataka Tales," which narrate previous lives of the Buddha.
Location Reiteration
- Sanchi Stupa is situated in Madhya Pradesh, India, recognized for its well-preserved stupas and monuments linked to Buddhist architecture.
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Description
Explore the history and significance of the Sanchi Stupa, a key Buddhist site in India. Learn about its origins, architecture, and cultural importance.