Parts of a stupa
Topic: Early Indian Art and Architecture: Stupas, Rock-cut Caves, Temples · NCERT: Beyond NCERT
Meaning
A stupa is a mound built over relics of the Buddha. Relics are his bodily remains or objects he used. The word stupa is Sanskrit for "heap". Its main parts, from bottom to top, are:
- Anda: a half-round mound that holds the relics.
- Harmika: a balcony-like structure on top, seen as the abode of the gods.
- Yashti: a mast rising from the harmika.
- Chhatri: an umbrella crowning the yashti.
A railing (vedika) runs around the mound and marks off the sacred space. Four carved gateways (toranas) stand at the four cardinal directions. Exams often ask for these parts in order.
Example
The Great Stupa at Sanchi (Madhya Pradesh) has all these parts. It began as a brick mound and was later enlarged in stone. Its four gateways are richly carved, and devotees entered by the eastern one.
Don't confuse with
- Chaitya: a chaitya is any sacred place, such as a special tree, rock or small shrine, or a prayer hall. A stupa is a specific kind of relic mound with these fixed parts.