Why In The News?

• The two-day Mahabodhi Mahotsav is being held at the Great Stupa at Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

=> The event includes religious ceremonies honoring the relics of Lord Buddha’s chief disciples, Sariputra and Maudgalyayana, highlighting the cultural and spiritual significance of Sanchi Stupa.

About Sanchi Stupa:

Historical Significance:

• Commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE and later expanded by Shunga and Satavahana rulers.

Architectural Features:

• Large hemispherical dome (Anda) symbolizing the universe.
• Chatras (umbrella structures) on top, signifying royalty and divine protection.
• Harmika (balcony) atop the dome representing the abode of the gods.
• Medhi stores relics and serves as the base of the stupa.
• Toranas: Four elaborately carved gates depicting Buddha’s life events and Jataka tales, pointing to four cardinal directions.
• Vedica: Railings enclosing the stupa for sacred protection.
• Paradakshinapatha: Pathways for circumambulation by devotees.

Symbolism:

• Early Buddhist aniconism; Buddha represented through symbols like footprints, wheels, or empty thrones rather than direct depictions.

Inscriptions:

• Includes Ashokan Lion Capital and inscriptions in Brahmi and Kharosthi scripts.

UNESCO Status:

• Declared a World Heritage Site in 1989.