Anda
Topic: Early Indian Art and Architecture: Stupas, Rock-cut Caves, Temples · NCERT: Class 7, Ch 5 "The Rise of Empires"; Class 12, Ch 4 "Thinkers, Beliefs and Buildings"
Meaning
The anda is the half-round dome of a stupa. The word means "egg", and a stupa is a mound built over holy relics. Stupas began as simple semi-circular heaps of earth. Over time they grew into more complex buildings that balance round and square shapes. The anda holds the relics, which are the Buddha's bodily remains or things he used. It is also said to stand for the universe. Above it come the harmika, the yashti and the chhatri.
Example
The Great Stupa at Sanchi in Madhya Pradesh is a huge anda. It was first built of brick and later enlarged and covered with stone. Railings and four carved gateways surround it.
Don't confuse with
- Harmika: the small square, balcony-like part on top of the anda. It was thought of as the home of the gods.