SANCHI ART

Table of Contents
1 Introduction:................................................................................................................1
2 Historical background:...............................................................................................1
2.1 Construction of sanchi:.................................................................................................................1
a) Mauryan Empire:..........................................................................................................................1
b) Kushan Empire:.............................................................................................................................1
c) Gupta Empire:...............................................................................................................................1
d) Structure:.......................................................................................................................................2
2.2 Significance:..................................................................................................................................2
2.3 Key features:.................................................................................................................................2
3 Architectural importance of Sanchi Stupa:..............................................................2
3.1 Architecture of Sanchi Stupa:.......................................................................................................2
3.2 Features of Sanchi Stupa:..............................................................................................................3
3.3 Significance of Sanchi Stupas in modern times:...........................................................................3
4 The Great stupa:..........................................................................................................3
4.1 Religious significance:..................................................................................................................3
4.2 Architectural details:.....................................................................................................................3
4.3 Revival and Recognition:..............................................................................................................3
5 Ashoka’s Pillar of Sanchi:...........................................................................................4
5.1 Sanchi's Magnificent Pillar:..........................................................................................................4
5.2 Lions of Ashoka’s Pillar:..............................................................................................................4
6 Sculpture and Carvings:.............................................................................................4
6.1 Sanchi's Diverse Heritage:............................................................................................................4
a) Evolution of Sanchi's Stupas:........................................................................................................4
b) Distinctive Elements and Relics:..................................................................................................4
7 Sanchi as Buddhist center:.........................................................................................5
7.1 Timeless Treasures of Sanchi:......................................................................................................5
7.2 Features:........................................................................................................................................5
7.3 Legacy and Significance of Sanchi:..............................................................................................5
8 Decline and Rediscovery:............................................................................................5

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 8.1 Decline:.........................................................................................................................................5
a) Reasons:........................................................................................................................................5
8.2 Rediscovery:..................................................................................................................................6
9 Influence on later architectural styles:......................................................................6
9.1 Stupa architecture:.........................................................................................................................6
9.2 Symbolic significance:..................................................................................................................6
9.3 Influence on Gupta Architecture:..................................................................................................6
9.4 Evolution of Temple Architecture:...............................................................................................7
9.5 Regional Adaptations:...................................................................................................................7
9.6 Aesthetic and Structural Elements:...............................................................................................7
10 Sanchi in World Heritage:..........................................................................................7
10.1 Significance after Reconition:.......................................................................................................7
10.2 UNESCO Designation's Impact on Sanchi Stupa Tourism:.........................................................8
11 Current Preservation and Efforts:.............................................................................8
11.1 Preservation of sanchi:..................................................................................................................8
11.2 Types of phases:............................................................................................................................8
a) First phase:....................................................................................................................................8
b) Second phase:................................................................................................................................8
c) The next phase:.............................................................................................................................8
11.3 Restoration:...................................................................................................................................8
a) Projects:.........................................................................................................................................8
b) Documentation and Research:......................................................................................................9
c) Monitoring and Maintenance:.......................................................................................................9
11.4 Use of Modern Conservation:.......................................................................................................9
a) Techniques:...................................................................................................................................9
b) Visitor Management:.....................................................................................................................9
c) Public Awareness and Education:.................................................................................................9
d) Emergency Response Planning:....................................................................................................9
12 Conclusion: ..................................................................................................................9
13 References:.................................................................................................................10

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1 Introduction:
Sanchi refers to a small village in India located 46 km north-east of Bhopal, and ten km from
Besnagar and Vidisha in the central part of the state of Madhya Pradesh. Sanchi has an average
elevation of 434 meters (1423 feet). The town exists as a Nagar panchayat (town committee or
council) in Raisen district in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. The great Stupa is said to be
the first and oldest Buddhist site in India, which also has the oldest stone structures constructed
in it. The Stupas of Sanchi display the Buddhist style of architecture. Under King Ashoka’s
reign, Sanchi Stupa was constructed in the 3rd Century BC. Sanchi Stupa was said to be built
under the direct supervision of King Ashoka’s wife, Queen Devi, and his daughter. The
sculptures, monuments and lush gardens of Sanchi Stupa have been designated as the World
Heritage site by UNESCO. From then it is counted among the best conserved ancient Stupas of
central India.

2 Historical background:
Sanchi is an ancient archaeological site in Madhya Pradesh, India. It is famous for its famous
stupas and excavations. These stupas house ancient artifacts, such as sculptures and architectural
remains that provide insights into the development of Indian architecture, sculpture, and the
evolution of the art of stucco decoration.
Sanchi is a Buddhist complex, famous for its Great Stupa, on a hilltop at Sanchi Town in Raisen
District of the State of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is located, about 23 kilometers from Raisen
town, district headquarter and 46 kilo meters north-east of Bhopal, capital of Madhya Pradesh.
2.1 Construction of sanchi:
The construction of Sanchi is believed to have been carried out by different empires at different
times.
a) Mauryan Empire:
The first known phase of construction was during the Mauryan Empire, between the 3rd and 2nd
centuries BCE.
b) Kushan Empire:
The Kushan Empire, which ruled from the 1st to the 3rd centuries BCE, is also believed to have
made significant contributions to the site.
c) Gupta Empire:
More recently, in the 5th and 6th centuries BCE, the Gupta Empire also played a role in the
preservation and construction of Sanchi.

This later period saw the addition of new stupas, the development of the Pillar capital (sandstone
sculptures) corridor, and the expansion of the earlier complexes.

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 d) Structure:
The structures at sanchi are predominantly built using sandstone and the black basalt columns
that are such a prominent feature of the site were introduced by the Kushan Empire.

2.2 Significance:
Great Stupa: The Great Stupa is Sanchi's most significant stupa, standing at an impressive height
of 21 meters. This monument, built by King Chandragupta II in the 3rd century BCE, houses a
variety of Buddhist relics, including some believed to be those of the Buddha himself.
Religious Importance Sanchi, also known as Mount Girnar, has religious significance in India. It
is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, or divine centers of the Hindu religion. According to Hindu
mythology, Mount Girnar was created when the sun god Surya descended to the earth. As a
result, it is believed to be a sacred and auspicious site. It’s includes Buddhist Influence, Cultural
heritage, Geographical features.

2.3 Key features:

 Great stupa of sanchi
 Ashoka pillars
 Brahma Corona and Buddhist Viharas
 Ashoka’s pillar at Brahma’s Kut
 Bhimbetka Rock Shelters

3 Architectural importance of Sanchi Stupa:

The great stupa of Sanchi was constructed by the Mauryan King Ashoka in the 3rd Century
BCSanchi is a world heritage site situated about 50 kilometres from Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.
There are three stupas in Sanchi: Stupa-1, Stupa-2 and Stupa-3. Stupa-1 is believed to have relics
of Buddha. Stupa-2 has relics of the less famous arhats, and Stupa-3 has the relics of Sariputta
and Mahamougalayana.

3.1 Architecture of Sanchi Stupa:

The Stupas of Sanchi display the Buddhist style of architecture. The great Stupa has a
hemispherical dome which is the main highlight of this site. This is also known as Anda. There is
a base on which the main dome is rested, and there is a relic chamber. The dome is decorated
with three structures called Chhatris, and it is believed that these structures stand for the three
jewels of Buddhism, i.e. Dharma, Sangha and Buddha. The pedestal has a diameter of 120 feet
and a height of 54 feet, making it unique nationally. It has four beautifully decorated ‘toranas’
(or gateways) which show Buddha’s various life events. Each Torana has three horizontal bars
and two vertical pillars on the top. The horizontal bar has decorations of different sculptural
themes on both sides, front and back. The Ashokan Lion Capital pillar is found on the southern
side of the Stupa, proving that Sanchi had become a center of artistic activities.

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3.2 Features of Sanchi Stupa:
Initially, bricks were used in the construction of the Stupa, which expanded over time. It was
eventually covered with stones due to the construction of toranas and vedikas (low walls). The
design of Stupa’s toran and fencing reminds of Bamboo craft. There is a square railing (Harmika)
on the top of the dome (Anda). On the top of the Harmika, there is an umbrella-like structure. The
great Stupa has an upper and lower pradakshina path, a circumambulation path. The upper
pradakshina path is unique to this site only. The pradakshina path around the great Stupa is
covered with the vedika. The Great Stupa (or Stupa-1) is the oldest among the three Stupas.
However, the carving of images on the vedika of Stupa-2 is much older.
3.3 Significance of Sanchi Stupas in modern times:
Sanchi Stupa was tagged as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989.The national emblem of India
is acquired from the Lion Capital, which was found at Sarnath and Sanchi.

4 The Great stupa:

Great Stupa, most noteworthy of the structures at the historic site of Sanchi in Madhya
Pradesh state, India. It is one of the oldest Buddhist monuments in the country and the
largest stupa at the site. The Great Stupa (also called stupa no. 1) was originally built in the 3rd
century BCE by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka and is believed to house ashes of the Buddha. The
simple structure was damaged at some point during the 2nd century BCE. It was later repaired and
enlarged, and elements were added; it reached its final form in the 1st century BCE.

4.1 Religious significance:

The great stupa is an important form of Buddhist architecture, though it predates Buddhism. It is
generally considered to be a sepulchral monument—a place of burial or a receptacle for religious
objects.

4.2 Architectural details:

The building is 120 feet (37 meters) wide and 54 feet (17 meters) high. The central structure
consists of a hemispherical dome (anda). The stupa is surrounded by four intricately carved
toranas (or gateways), each adorned with elaborate carvings depicting scenes from the life of
Buddha, Jataka tales, and various Buddhist symbols. These gateways serve as entrances,
symbolizing the transition from the mundane world to the sacred space of the stupa. The Ashokan
Lion Capital pillar is found on the southern side of the Stupa.

4.3 Revival and Recognition:

Sometime after the 12th century BCE, Sanchi was abandoned, and its monuments fell into
disrepair. The Great Stupa and Sanchi’s other Buddhist monuments were collectively designated
a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1989.

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5 Ashoka’s Pillar of Sanchi:
Perhaps the most popular tourist attraction in Sanchi is the Ashoka Pillar near the south gate of the
famous Sanchi Stupa.
5.1 Sanchi's Magnificent Pillar:
This column is believed to have been built in the 3rd century BC. It is very similar to Sarnath
Pillar. The entire building no longer exists, but the pillar shafts can be seen from the gate, and the
crown was on display in the museum. The top of the pillar is its most distinctive feature. Sanchi is
admired by four royal lions facing in all directions with their backs to each other. This
architectural style is also admired by Greco-Buddhism. This figure is considered an excellent
example of the aesthetic elegance and exquisite structural balance that are characteristic of
Moorish architecture.
5.2 Lions of Ashoka’s Pillar:
A depiction of this figure and her four lions has been adopted as the national emblem of India.
This Lion of Ashoka’s Pillar does not support the Dharma chakra or the Dharma Wheel. To
experience the inspiration for the national emblem in its historical and cultural setting, the
museum in Sanchi is worth a visit.

6 Sculpture and Carvings:

Early Indian sculpture that embellished the 1st Century-BC gateways of the Buddhist relic mound
called the Great Stupa. Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh, which is most magnificent monument of its time.
The artistic history of Sanchi continuous from 3rd Century BC to 11th Century AD.
6.1 Sanchi's Diverse Heritage:
It is the site of three stupas:
a) Evolution of Sanchi's Stupas:
No. 1, Ashokan foundation enlarged in succeeding centuries. No. 2, railing decoration of late
sanchi period (1st century BC) and No. 3, with single toran (ceremonial gateways) late first
century BC-1st century AD.

b) Distinctive Elements and Relics:

 commemorative pillar which us erected by emperor Asoka(265-238BC)
 Gupta Temple (temple no 17)
 Flat floor and pillared portico.
 and monastic buildings ranging over several centuries
 Stupa-1 is believed to have relics of Buddha.
 Stupa-2 has relics of less famous arhat.
 Stupa-3 has relics of Sariputra and Mahamoggallana.
 Buddha depicted in symbolic form, by q wheel, an empty throne, or a pair of footprints.

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7 Sanchi as Buddhist center:

7.1 Timeless Treasures of Sanchi:

The stupas, temples, viharas, and stambha at Sanchi in central India are among the oldest and most
mature examples of iconic arts and free-standing architecture that comprehensively document the
history of Buddhism from the 3rd century BCE to the 12th century BCE.
7.2 Features:
Sanchi Stupa is a Buddhist monument in Madhya Pradesh, India. It was built by Emperor Ashoka
in the 3rd century BCE. The stupa is a hemispherical dome-shaped structure made of bricks and
stone. It is believed to contain the relics of the Buddha. The stupa has four intricately-carved
gateways called torana's. The carvings depict scenes from the life of the Buddha and Jataka tales.
Sanchi Stupa is considered a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists. It was abandoned in the 14th
century and later restored by the British. In 1989, Sanchi Stupa has declared a UNESCO World
Heritage Site. It is a significant symbol of India’s cultural and religious heritage.
7.3 Legacy and Significance of Sanchi:
Sanchi is one of the oldest extant Buddhist sanctuaries. Although Buddha never visited the site
during any of his former lives or during his earthly existence, the religious nature of this shiren is
obvious. The chamber of relics of stupa 3 contained the remains of sariputra, a disciple of
Shakyamuni who died six months before his master; he is especially venerated by the occupants of
the small vehicle or Hinayana.

8 Decline and Rediscovery:

8.1 Decline:
Its decline as a prominent religious site coincided with the decline of Buddhism in the Indian
subcontinent.
a) Reasons:
Various factors that lead to its decline are
 Corruption in Buddhist sangha
 Division among Buddhist
 Use of Sanskrit language
 Buddha worship
 Persecution of Buddhist
 Muslim invasion
 Revival and reform of Vedic Brahmanism
8.2 Rediscovery:
Abandoned from the 14th century, Sanchi was 'rediscovered' by a British officer, General Taylor,
in 1818. However, it was not until 1881 that restoration work was initiated.03-Jun-2008

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 When it was discovered in 1818 by General Taylor, Sanchi had lain abandoned for 600 years.
The site, 45 km from Bhopal, was overrun with vegetation. Excavations began in somewhat
disorganized fashion until the Archaeological Survey of India stepped in and took control.
Since Sanchi remained mostly intact, few artefacts of Sanchi can be found in Western Museums:
for example, the Gupta statue of Padmapani is at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London,
and one of the Yashinis can be seen at the British Museum.

Today, around fifty monuments remain on the hill of Sanchi, including three main stupas and
several temples. The monuments have been listed among other famous monuments in the
UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1989.

9 Influence on later architectural styles:

9.1 Stupa architecture:

The great stupa at Sanchi is one of the earliest and most well-preserved stupas in India. It served
as a model for the construction of stupas across the Indian subcontinent. The basic elements of a
stupa, such as the hemispherical dome, harmika (square railing or fence), and the finial or
crowning element, became standard features in Buddhist architecture.
9.2 Symbolic significance:
Sanchi’s architecture is laden with symbolic elements that convey Buddhist teachings. The four
gateways (torana’s) at Sanchi are adorned with intricate carving depicting scenes from the life of
Buddha and Jataka tales. This tradition of using symbolic art to convey religious message became
a characteristic feather of later Buddhist and Hindu temple.
9.3 Influence on Gupta Architecture:
The Gupta period (4th to 6th centuries CE) saw the flourishing of art and architecture. The
architectural style of the Gupta dynasty, characterized by the use of finely carved stone, can be
traced back to Sanchi. The Gupta rulers were patrons of Buddhism, and the influence of Sanchi is
evident in the design and ornamentation of Gupta temple.
9.4 Evolution of Temple Architecture:
While Sanchi itself is predominantly associated with Buddhist architecture, its influence extended
to Hindu temple architecture as well. The concept of a central structure surrounded by smaller
structures or courtyards, as seen in the layout of Sanchi, influenced the evolution of Hindu temple
complexes.
9.5 Regional Adaptations:
As Buddhism spread to different regions, local adaptations of the architectural style emerged.
Stupas similar to Sanchi were constructed in various parts of Southeast Asia, Central Asia, and
East Asia, each incorporating local design elements while maintaining the fundamental
characteristics inspired by Sanchi.

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9.6 Aesthetic and Structural Elements:
The artistic and structural elements employed at Sanchi, such as the use of railing, Torana, and
decorative carvings, became integral to later Indian architectural styles. The aesthetic sensibilities
developed at Sanchi contributed to the rich artistic heritage of India.

10 Sanchi in World Heritage:

10.1 Sanchi in UNESCO world heritage:

On a flat - topped sandstone hill that rises some 300 feet (90 meter) above the surrounding country
stands India's best preserved group of Buddhist monument's collection designated a UNESCO
world heritage sites in 1989.
10.2 Significance after Recognition:
The recognition of sanchi as a UNESCO world heritage sites has bestowed several significant
benefits and importance upon the sites. Here are some key aspects of the significance that sanchi
has gained after receiving this prestigious destination:
 The UNESCO recognition underscore the culture and historical importance of sanchi
stupa.
 Sanchi UNESCO status has led to an increase in tourism.
 Tourist from around the world heritage are more likely to visit world heritage sites.
 The sites recognition attract scholar's researchers and students interested in studying the
history, art and architecture of sanchi.
 Sanchi's recognition encourages cultural exchange between different countries and
communities.
10.3 UNESCO Designation's Impact on Sanchi Stupa Tourism:
The recognition of sanchi stupa as a UNESCO world heritage sites had a positive impact on
tourism in the region.
Here are some ways in which this designation has influenced tourism:
 The UNESCO world heritage sites status brings international recognition and visibility to
a cultural or natural sites.
 The UNESCO designated emphasize the cultural and historical importance of sanchi
stupa.
 The UNESCO designated often comes with a conserving to preserving and commitment
helps in maintaining the integrity and authenticity of sanchi stupa, ensuring that it
remains a well - preserved historical monuments for future generations.
 The recognition as world heritage sites may lead to increased investment in tourist
infrastructure such as improved roads, signage, visitor's centers, and facilities.
 The UNESCO world heritage sites often become center for cultural exchange and
education.
 Increased tourism can have positive economic effects on the local community.

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  The designated as a world heritage sites is often leverage by tourism authorities in their
promotional activities.
 They use the UNESCO recognition as a marketing tool to attract more visitors to the sites
and the surrounding region.

11 Current Preservation and Efforts:

11.1 Preservation of sanchi:

An important precursor to the conversation and preservation efforts at sanchi was the arrival in
1869.It was then that a massive project of copying, photographing and replicating of the sanchi
monument took place along with the restoration of the structures.
11.2 Types of phases:
a) First phase:

This first phase of conservation at the site was a welcome move on the part of the British authorities.
b) Second phase:

The second phase of well-intentioned but supervision of Mr. Cook state engineer at Bhopal in 1904.
c) The next phase:

The Bhopal state funded the next phase of restoration project of sanchi site undertaken by John
Marshall.
11.3 Restoration:
a) Projects:

The archaeological survey of India has been actively involved in the conservation and
restoration of sanchi stupa. This including the repair and maintenance of the ancient structures
and artifacts within the site.
b) Documentation and Research:

Preservation efforts often involves extensive documentation and research to understand the
historical and architectural significance of the site. This information is crucial for planning
conservation projects.

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 c) Monitoring and Maintenance:
Regular monitoring of the site condition is undertaken to identify any signs of decay, damage or
structural instability. Maintenance activities, such as cleaning and landscaping are carried out to
ensure the overall well-being of the monument.
11.4 Use of Modern Conservation:
a) Techniques:
Advance conservation technique are employed to preserve the ancient structures. This may
include chemical treatments to protect stonework, structural reinforcement and other measures to
mitigate the impact of weathering and pollution.
b) Visitor Management:
Effort are made to manage and control visitor access to minimize the impact of tourism on the
site. This involves creating designated pathways installing signage, and implementing visitor
education programs.
c) Public Awareness and Education:
Preservation efforts often include initiative to raise public awareness about the historical and
cultural significance of the site. Educational programs may be conducted to engage local
communities and visitor.
d) Emergency Response Planning:
Preservation efforts involves the development of emergency response plans to address
unforeseen events. Such as natural disasters or accidental damage.

12 Conclusion:
The Sanchi Stupa is a timeless icon and a living testament of India’s rich cultural, historical, and
architectural heritage. Sanchi illuminates not only the intricate carvings and architectural
brilliance but also the philosophical tenets that have withstood the sands of time. It serves as a
tangible link to the past, reflecting the profound philosophical teachings of Buddhism and the
grandeur of the Mauryan Empire. The stupa’s enduring legacy is a testament to the power of
peace, spirituality, and artistic expression, reminding us of the timeless relevance of these values
in our contemporary world.

13 References:
 https://www.britannica.com/place/Great-Stupa-Buddhist-
monument-Sanchi-India
 https://prepp.in/news/e-492-sanchi-stupa-art-and-culture-notes
 http://asi.nic.in

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 https://whc.unesco.org/
 https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanchi
 https://www.fabhotels.com/blog/sanchi-stupa-madhya-pradesh/
 https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/stupa-town-sanchi-all-
set-to-be-a-solar-city/articleshow/100197017.cms?from=mdr
 https://study.com/academy/lesson/great-stupa-sanchi-history-
description-facts.html
 https://www.culturalindia.net/monuments/sanchi-stupa.html

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