Recently, India’s External Affairs visited the replica of the East Gate of the Great Stupa of Sanchi at the Humboldt Forum museum in Berlin.

About The Great Stupa of Sanchi

• Historical Importance:
  • The Great Stupa of Sanchi is one of the oldest stone monuments in India.
  • It was built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE.
  • It contains sacred relics of the Buddha and is part of a group of Buddhist temples and stupas.
• Design:
  • The Stupa is shaped like a dome and has a parasol on top, which is called a chhatra.
  • It is a key symbol of ancient Buddhist art and architecture.

Gateways of the Great Stupa

• Construction: The Stupa has four beautifully carved gateways, called toranas.
  • These were built in the 1st century BCE during the Satavahana dynasty.

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• • Each torana consists of two square pillars that support three curved beams, with carvings all over.
• Carvings:
  • The gateways are decorated with carvings that show scenes from the Buddha’s life, Jataka Tales, and other Buddhist symbols.
  • They also have floral and plant designs, and some carvings depict love scenes.
  • Buddha is not shown in human form.