Situated approximately 50 kilometers from Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh, Sanchi Stupa stands as an iconic testament to India's rich cultural and religious heritage. This UNESCO World Heritage site comprises three main stupas, each weaving a narrative of profound historical significance.

Stupa-1: Relics of the Buddha

Believed to house the relics of the Buddha, Stupa-1 is an architectural marvel that evolved from a modest brick structure to a grand edifice adorned with stone, vedika, and torana. The southern side proudly features the Ashokan lion-capital pillar, a symbol of Sanchi's transformation into a center of monastic and artistic activities.

Stupa-2: Relics of Ten Arhats

Stupa-2, with its relics of ten less famous arhats from three generations, is a captivating chapter in Sanchi's history. The relic casket bears the names of these revered figures. The stupa's architectural journey mirrors the growth of Sanchi, showcasing stone embellishments and an array of sculptures.

Stupa-3: Relics of Sariputta and Mahamougalayana

Stupa-3, another jewel in the Sanchi ensemble, cradles the relics of Sariputta and Mahamougalayana. This stupa, while less renowned than its counterparts, adds depth to the spiritual tapestry of Sanchi. Its understated elegance and historical significance make it an integral part of the site.

Exquisite Gateways: Symbolism and Mastery

Stupa-1's gateways are a masterpiece of intricate carvings, symbolically portraying Buddha through elements like the empty throne, feet, chhatra, and stupas. The pradakshinapath surrounding the stupa, along with the unique upper pradakshinapath, adds a distinctive touch. Four gateways, starting with the southern one, showcase lavish sculptures depicting Buddhist narratives.

Toranas: Stylistic Nuances

Toranas, gracing all four directions, offer stylistic variations hinting at a chronological progression from the first century BCE onwards. Despite Stupa-1's claim as the oldest, Stupa-2 steals the show with earlier image carvings. Jatakas, intricately woven into the stupa narratives, add layers of significance.

Masterful Sculptures: Small Dimensions, Grand Impact

Despite their petite size, the figures at Sanchi demonstrate sculptural mastery, portraying physiognomic depth and dimension with striking naturalism. Guardian images embellish pillars, and the shalbhanjika sculptures, depicting ladies holding branches of trees, showcase voluminous treatment.

Evolution in Art: From Rigidity to Grace

Witnessing an evolution from the rigidity of earlier sculptures, Sanchi's toranas manifest in pairs, each telling a unique story through diverse sculptural themes. The shalbhanjikas, adorning the lowermost bar extensions, contribute to the grace and finesse of this architectural marvel.

o Four beautifully decorated toranas depict events from the life of the Buddha and Jatakas.

o Figure compositions are in high relief, with naturalistic postures and a lack of stiffness in the body.

· Advancements in Carving Techniques:

o Carving techniques at Sanchi appear more advanced than Bharhut.

o Symbols representing the Buddha continue to be used.

· Elaborated Narratives at Sanchi:

o Sanchi Stupa-1 exhibits more elaborate narratives compared to Bharhut.

o The depiction of the dream episode remains simple, showing the reclining image of the queen and the elephant at the top.

o Historical narratives, such as the siege of Kushinara, Buddha's visit to Kapilavastu, and Ashoka's visit to the Ramgrama Stupa, are carved with considerable detail.

· Regional Differences:

o While maintaining a similar quality, images from Mathura during this period exhibit differences in the depiction of physiognomic details compared to Sanchi.

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