Sanchi Stupa In Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh

Sanchi Stupa History

It was originally commissioned by Mauryan emperor Ashoka the Great in 3rd century BCE.In Sanchi history, during ancient times, Sanchi was known by various names like Kakanava, Kakanaya, Kakanadabota and Bota-Sri Parvata. It was distinctively known for remarkable specimens of Buddhist art and architecture since the early Mauryan period. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1989. Buddhist Stupa at Sanchi is an excavated site which was rediscovered by British India officer General Taylor in 1818 but actual restoration work was initiated from 1912 to 1919 under the supervision of Sir John Marshall.

Sanchi Stupa Architecture

The dome of Buddhist Stupa at Sanchi was set on a high circular drum meant for circumambulation, which could be accessed via a double staircase. The southern gate of Stupa No 1 (thought to be the oldest and main entrance to the stupa) has depictions of the story of the Buddha's relics, starting with the War over the Relics. Stupa No2 was established later than the Great Stupa, but it displays the earliest architectural ornaments.

These monuments record the genesis, efflorescence and decay of Buddhist art and architecture over a period of 1300 years, from the 3rd BC to 12th century AD. Sanchi Stupa in Bhopal is mainly built during Mauryan dynasty rule.