HISTORICAL AND ARCHITECTURAL SIGNIFICANCE OF

KESARIYA STUPA

INTRODUCTION:
The Kesariya stupa stands as a remarkable testament to the rich cultural and heritage
of Buddhism and the architectural ingenuity of ancient India.
The Kesariya stupa is located in the Champaran district of Bihar, India and also 100
kilometers away from another equally massive stupa of Nandangarh and at a distance
of 40 kilometers from the Asokan pillar at Lauriya-Areraj.
The name ‘Kesariya’ which is said to be derived from Sanskrit word ‘Kesar’ meaning
Saffron. According to local folklore, the stupa was originally adorned with a golden
pinnacle that shone like the precious spice Saffron in the sunlight, hence earning it the
name Kesariya.
The massive stupa at Kesariya is believed to be one of the tallest stupas in the world
and also stands as a towering monument to the spread and flourishing of Buddhism in
the region.
This monumental structure of Kesariya stupa, dating back to the ancient Mauryan
period. This massive Kesariya stupa serves as a tangible link to India's ancient past,
offering insights into the socio-cultural, religious and political dynamics of the Mauryan
era.

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 As a Buddhist monument, it holds immense religious importance for millions flowers of
the faith around the world. Pilgrims and devotees flock to the site to pay their respects,
offer prayers and seek spiritual solace in the serene ambiance of the stupa. The
Kesariya stupa serves as a sacred pilgrimage site, where the faithful can connect with
the teaching of Buddha and experience sense of transcendence amidst its ancient
surroundings.
The Kesariya stupa is one among the recent additions to the repertoire of Buddhist
structural heritage of India.
In this comprehensive essay, we will delve into the historical and architectural
significance of kesariya stupa.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF KESARIYA STUPA:

MAURYAN ERA:
The Kesariya stupa traces its origin to the Mauryan period which flourished in
ancient India from the 4th to 2nd century BCE.
The Kesariya stupa was not only a center of spiritual and intellectual activity but also
a vibrant hub of commerce and cultural exchange. Silk, spices, precious metals, and
exotic artifacts changed hands, enriching the tapestry of cultural diversity that
characterized the Mauryan Empire.
The Kesariya stupa is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists around the world. It
is believed to be the place where Lord Buddha delivered his last sermon before
attaining Nirvana. So, the Kesariya stupa is a remarkable achievement of the Mauryan
empire and it serves as a testament to India's ancient architectural and cultural heritage.

PATRONAGE OF EMPEROR ASHOKA:

Emperor Ashoka, renowned for his conversion to Buddhism and advocacy of non-
violence (ahimsa), played a pivotal role in the spread and propagation of Buddhism.
Ashoka’s edicts and inscriptions, carved on pillars and rock surfaces throughout his
empire, provide valuable insights into the construction and significance of Buddhist
monuments including stupas like the one at Kesariya.
As a Buddhist, Ashoka was deeply committed to the spread and propagation
throughout his empire. He commissioned the construction of numerous stupas,
monasteries and viharas across the Indian subcontinent as part of his efforts to support
the Buddhist faith. The Kesariya stupa was one of the beneficiaries of his patronage.
Over time, the Kesariya stupa became a symbol of Buddhist piety and devotion,
attracting pilgrims and travelers from various parts of the world. Its enduring presence
and the legends associated with it served as a testament and a promoter of religious
tolerance and pluralism.
Ashoka's patronage played a crucial role in the construction, expansion and
maintenance of the kesariya stupa, elevating it to a position of prominence within the

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Buddhist world. The Kesariya stupa stands as a tangible reminder of his enduring
influence on the history and heritage of India.

HISTORY AND LEGENDS:

During the early centuries of the common era many travelers travel to kesariya
stupa, among them;
Xuanzang the renowned Chinese Buddhist monk and scholar embarked on a
monumental journey to India in the 7th century CE, seeking to deepen his
understanding of Buddhist teachings and scriptures. He visits kesariya stupa on his way
from Vaishali to Nalanda in his travel accounts. He refers to this stupa as the Chakavarti
stupa. The Buddha has said that the stupas were to be raised for Chakravartins at the
cross section of the four prominent roads. For Xuanzang this stupa was not merely a
physical structure but a symbol of the profound teachings of Buddha. He shared his
journey of kesariya stupa in his travelog ‘The Great Tang Records On the western
regions’.
There is evidence that another linkage of Kesariya as Chakravarti stupa occurs in
Pali Jataka. It says that at this point the Buddha himself narrated a story of his previous
birth when he had been a Chakravarti king named Mahadeva and had ruled at this
place.
Like Xuanzang, monk Faxian a Chinese Buddhist monk embarked on pilgrimage to
India in the 5th century CE in search of Buddhist scriptures. He has not mentioned
stupa but claims to have witnessed the same account engraved on a pillar. Kesariya is
associated with the township of Kesaputta Nigam where the Buddha delivered his
famous Kalama sutta to the Kesaputtiyas or the people of Kesaputta.

In local traditions, it has been popularly known as ‘Raja Ben Ka Devra’. Alexander
Cunningham believes that this story may relate to one Raja Ven mentioned in the
Vishnu Puran. The Buddhist association of Raja Ben is also noted.
The Padma Purana also mentions King Ben as a Buddhist Chakravartin who had
attended superpowers but due to his wrongful acts, his wife drowned in a tank nearby
identified by A. Cunningham with Gangaya tank, near Kesariya stupa. Later the same
king raised the stupa and entered it with his family.

It is also believed that, after Lord Buddha visit with Amarpali, he continued with his
towards Kushinagar. He traveled along the eastern banks of the river Gandak also
called Narayani. A band of his devoted Licchavis accompanied Lord Buddha in this
journey at a spot Kesariya, Lord Buddha took rest from his long journey for a night. It
was here that he chose to announce to his disciples the news of his impending Nirvana
(meant the final goal of leaving the cycle of the world of heaven) and import them to
return to Vaishali. The widely lamenting Licchavis could not understand his message.
They just refused to leave their saint. This was then, Lord Buddha forced them to leave

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by creating a 3000 feet wide stream between them and himself. As a momento, he gave
them his alms-bowl. The Licchavis most reluctantly and expressing their sorrow widely,
decided to leave in vain and built a stupa there to mark the event and show their
respect. The sacred alms-bowl was placed in the stupa, built by them. The reason for
Lord Buddha choosing Kesariya to announce his impending Nirvana, as he ruled
Kesariya kingdom in a previous life as Chakravarti Raja Ben.

ARCHITECTURAL SIGNIFICANCE OF KESARIYA STUPA:-

MONUMENTAL SCALE AND DIMENSIONS:-
One of the most striking features of kesariya stupa is its monumental size and scale,
making it a towering landmark in the surrounding landscape.
The stupa rises to an impressive height of approximately 104 feet (31.7meters) and
boasts a circumference of over 1400 feet (427 meters) showcasing the architectural
powers of its builders.

Height
104 Feet

Circumference at the base 1400 Feet

CHRONOLOGY:-
Massive size and structure of the kesariya stupa indicates that the stupa undergoes
several stages of construction and reconstruction.

(1) ORIGINS AND CONSTRUCTION:(3rd century BCE)

The Kesariya stupa was built during the Mauryan empire under Emperor Ashoka in
3rd century BCE. Ashoka, after embracing Buddhism following the Kalinga war,

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embarked on a mission to spread the teachings of the Buddha and prote peace. At this
time the Kesariya stupa was constructed, serving as a monument to enshrine the relics
of Lord Buddha.
Constructed primarily of brick and mortar, the original Kesariya stupa would have
featured a simple yet imposing design, with a hemispherical dome stopping a cylindrical
base. Surrounding the stupa would been an expansive complex comprising monastic
quarters, meditation halls, and other structures to accommodate pilgrims and monks.

(2) EXPANSION AND RENOVATION:(1st century CE)

The first major construction occurs in Sunga-kushana age (100-300 CE). The stupa
likely saw the addition of decorative elements such as toranas, and railing (vedika)
which adorned its interior and these embellishments not only enhanced the aesthetic
appeal of the stupa but also served as platforms for depicting scenes from the life of the
Buddha and other Buddhist motifs.

(3) GOLDEN AGE OF GUPTA ARCHITECTURE:(3rd-7th century CE)

The Gupta period is often hailed as a Golden age of Indian art and architecture
characterized by unparalleled creativity and craftsmanship. The stupa underwent
prominent structural changes during the late Gupta period (300-700 CE). In this period
the stupa was expanded and terraced. Then the stupa again modified, expanded to a
circular hexagonal terrace from the 7th century CE. In this period Kumbha type molding
of the cells, the lines placed in niches, reflects Gupta influence.
The recent discovery of Buddha head from the site.

STRUCTURE:-
The Kesariya supa's structure consists of several key components, each imbued
with symbolic meaning and purpose. These components are;

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 (A) BASE:-

At the heart of the Kesariya stupa lies its foundation, a sturdy base upon which the
entire structure rests. This base has a cruciform foundation unlike the hemispherical
base which is common in early stupas. This base is a square plan which is divided into
four arms. The area between the arms is filled with star-like projection. The redan or
arrow-like projection works as an embankment to strengthen the base. This gives a
roughly polygonal shape to the structure. Kesariya type of cross-shape or cruciform
base stupas have been classified as stepped-cross stupas which are characterized by
the protrusions between their four arms.

THE ORIGIN OF CROSS-SHAPE BASE FOR THE STUPA:

An Afghan scholar said that cross-shape base or cruciform base stupas originate
from Afghanistan, because the cruciform base terraced stupa appeared in Afghanistan
and adjoining Swat valley also in Gandhara region around 3rd to 5th century CE.
Stupas of Bhamla, Harwan, Amluk Dara are early examples from this region but they
are much different in morphology and in the idea of representation from Kesariya stupa.
Some other categories it as Gandhara innovation.
Austro-Asiatic influence is also proposed for square based multi terraced structures in
India. But this view does not stand on firmer grounds as the examples cited from East
Asia, such as- Wat Kukut (Thailand), Paharpur (Bangladesh), Sathmahal Prasad (Sri
Lanka) are all dated later to Kesariya stupa.
Japanese scholar Kuwayama almost confirmed that the square podium is apparently
not Indian but of Western character. This is seen as a Greco-Roman influence.

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 The cross shaped arms bridged by redans strengthen and stabilize the stupa. This
type of base supports cylindrical Medhi. The Panchayatana Gupta temples of
Bhitargaon and Deogarh are built in similar style and chronologically they precede the
final structure of kesariya.

SYMBOLISM OF THE CROSS:

The cross shape of the base symbolizes the interaction of the Cardinal directions
(north,south,east and west) representing the universal reach of Buddha's teachings. It
also reflects the concept of the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold path, fundamental
tenets of Buddhism.

RITUAL SIGNIFICANCE OF BASE:

The design of the Kesariya stupa's base was not merely functional but also
imbued in enhancing the beauty of the structure while conveying religious techniques
and narratives.
Relief sculptures depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha, such as his birth,
enlightenment and final nirvana, adorn the exterior walls of the base. These sculptures
serve as visual representations of key events in Buddhist mythology, inspiring devotion
and reverence among worshippers.
Carving of Lotus petals, stupas, dharmachakra (the wheel of Dharma) and other
religious symbols are commonly found throughout the base. These symbols hold deep
religious significance in Buddhism, representing concepts such as enlightenment, purity
and the cycle of Samsara (the cycle of birth, death and rebirth).

(B) DOME AND HARMIKA:

Ascending from the base, the stupa's dome takes center stage dominating the
landscape with its imposing presence. The dome, also known as the anda, is a key
feature of Buddhist stupa, symbolizing the cosmic universe and the path to
enlightenment. Constructed using layers of bricks and mortar, the dome is meticulously
shaped to achieve a perfect hemispherical form. Its smooth surface reflects the interplay
of light and shadow, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle for onlookers.
Crowning the dome is the hermika, a square platform adorned with intricate
carvings and decorative elements. Symbolizing the abode of the gods, the harmika
serves as a focal point for Buddhist rituals offerings. Together the dome and harmika
form the quintessential elements of the stupa, embodying the core tenets of Buddhist
cosmology and theology.

(C) TERRACES:
One of the most striking features of the Kesariya stupa is its terraces, which are a
deflecting characteristic of its architectural design. These terraces are also known as
plinths or platforms.

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 Before the excavation of 2018-2019, which was conducted by the Archaeological
survey of India,5 terraces had been discovered and it was also reported that the
structure was still nine feet under the ground. During the excavation of 2018-2019 two
more terraces were found from the ground. Now it is a seven terraced structure.

Terraces

All the terraces are wide and serve as circumambulatory paths. These terraces are
fashioned in a circular manner and receding in circumference as they rise upwards.
There is a vertical gap of approximately 2.25 meters between two terraces.
In 2000-2001 excavation an 80cm wide staircase was exposed connecting two upper
terraces. The staircases are placed at different levels. This pattern seems to have been
adopted to maintain symmetry of structure and also added to its aesthetic.
The lower three terraces contain a group of three cells following a definite pattern at
fixed intervals. It is also assumed that there must be eight sets of three cells each. On
the fourth terrace, the number of cell groups remain the same but in the group of three
the flanking cells alongside the central cell are smaller in size. On the fifth terrace the
flanking cells are removed and only four cells in four cardinal directions remain.

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 Elevation- Receding Terraces

DESIGN OF THE CELLS:

The cells were designed to enshrine large Buddha images. Each cell is found with a
raised pedestal attached to the back wall of the cell. Most of the pedestals are either
devoid of the image or bear scanty remains of seated Buddha images. In some of the
cells the torso of Buddha is found but in almost all cases the head of the figure is
missing.
Images depict buddha seated in padmasree only two hand gestures have been
found intact bhumisparsa mudra and dhyara muelra. The images are made of clay,lime
and brick jelly with lime plaster applied over as final coating.

(D) PINNACLE OR CHHATRA:

Above the harmika rises the Chhatra, a multi-tiered parasol-like structure that
crowns the stupa. The chhatra symbolizes the umbrella of protection and spiritual
guidance offered by the Buddha's teachings. Its tiered design reflects the hierarchical
structure of the universe, with each level representing different realms of existence.

The uppermost tier of the chhatra is often adorned with decorative finials or decorative
elements, known as ‘Chhatrabhumi’ which further enhance the stupa's visual appeal
and religious significance. These finals may take the form of Lotus blossom, conch
shells or other auspicious symbols associated with Buddhism.

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 Pinnacle- Stupa of 30.77 Feet

(E) CIRCUMAMBULATORY PATH AND RAILINGS:

Surrounding the Kesariya stupa is a circumambulatory path or Pradakshina patha,
which enables devotees to walk clockwise around the structure as part of their religious
rituals. Enclosed by a series of intricately carved railings, adorned with motifs depicting
auspicious symbols and mythical creatures, serves both practical and symbols
purposes, demarcating the sacred precincts of the stupa while also conveying profound
spiritual teachings.

(F) STAIRCASES AND ENTRANCES:

Leading up to the circumambulatory path are a series of staircases and entrances,
strategically positioned to facilitate access to the stupa's inner sanctum. These
staircases, typically located at cardinal points around the circumference of the stupa,
serve as conduits for pilgrims and visitors seeking to pay their respect to the Buddha.
Flanked by ornate gateways or toranas, the entrances to the stupa are adorned with
elaborate carvings and sculptures depicting scenes from the life of Buddha.

(G) RELIC CHAMBERS AND INNER SANCTUM:

Deep within the core of the Kesariya stupa lie the relic chambers, repositories for
sacred relics and artifacts associated with the Buddha and his disciples. These
chambers, accessed via narrow passageways and concealed entrances, are believed to
enshrine relics such as bone fragments, ashes and personal belongings of the Buddha.
For devout Buddhists, the opportunity to circumambulate the relic chambers and offer
prayers at their sacred altars is a deeply spiritual experience, imbued with a sense of
awe and reverence.

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CONCLUSION:-
- As we conclude our exploration of the Kesariya stupa, we are reminded of its
enduring legacy as a symbol of India's rich cultural tapestry and the universal message
of peace and enlightenment propagated by the Buddha.
- Its towering presence and timeless beauty serves as a reminder of the profound
impact of Buddhism on the World and the enduring power of faith to transcend the
boundaries of time and space.
- Whether viewed as a historical artifact, an architectural marvel, the Kesariya stupa
continues to captivate the hearts and minds of all who encounter it, leaving an indelible
mark on the collective consciousness of humanity.

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