![]() Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi, Uttar Pradesh The town of Sanchi in the Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, listed as Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi. It is famous for the Great Stupa, which is the oldest stone structure in India. Originally commissioned by emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, its nucleus was a simple hemispherical brick structure built over the relics of Gautama Buddha, crowned by a Chatra, parasol-like structure symbolizing high rank intended to honour and shelter the relics. The construction work of the Sanchi Stupa was overseen by Ashoka's wife, Devi herself. Sanchi was also her birthplace as well as the venue of her and Ashoka's wedding. In the 1st century BCE, four elaborately carved Toranas, ornamental gateways along with a balustrade encircling the entire structure were added to the stupa. ![]() Viharas in Sirpur, Chhattisgarh The lost historic town of Sirpur in the Mahasamund district of Chhattisgarh, houses a number of Buddhist viharas. Buddha Vihara is a prominent attraction here, exuding warmth and religious harmony. Brick constructions and underground rooms stand testimony to a mystical era and the tone blend reminds of the temples and residential buildings of the Gupta dynasty. Buddha Vihara houses a 6-feet tall statue of Buddha, touching the earth. The many residential, meditation and study rooms display a glimpse of the Lords long lived glory. Enchanting inscriptions reveal that the ardent Buddha follower Anandprabhu created a 14-room shelter with welcome gates and "dwarapalas" on either side carved in stone pillars. The shelter is called Anandprabhu Kutir Vihara, named after its creator. Swastika Vihara was also excavated to reveal a huge Buddha statue and metal idols pertaining to the Buddhist era. Recent excavations have also revealed 12 Buddhist viharas and monolithic statues of Buddha. |
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