Early Buddhist Stupa-art, while depicting folk motifs and narratives successfully expounds Buddhist ideals. Elucidate. (UPSC GS Paper 1 2016)
The Stupas were erected in the honour of the Buddha and was one of the main features of propagating and establishing Buddhism. They depict a shift from the burial mound, its predecessor and symbolise the Buddhist teachings.
Structure of the Stupa
1) Anda : The main structure of the Great Stupa consisted a flat hemispherical dome, called an anda. It was placed onto of a cylindrical base. The anda signifies a symbol of connection with the eternal.
2) Harmika : Located at the summit of the anda, it symbolised that the individual should let go of the worldly desires to reach the top.
3) Toranga : They are placed in each of the four directions and contain the Jatakas (stories of Buddha’s life and events).
4) Cicum ambulatory path : They symbolise the earth’s revolution around the sun.
5) Parasol : It symbolised the sacred tree of life.
6) Chatri : The three elements of the Chatri represent the Three Jewels of Buddhism : Buddha, Dharma and Sangha
7) Vedikas : They were present around the Stupa and on the terrace on which the anda rested.
Thus, we can say that the Stupa’s while depicting folk motifs also expounded Buddhist ideals.
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