Relevance:
Archeological Survey of India discovered two 1200-year-old miniature Votive stupas (offered in fulfillment of a vow) near Sarai Tila mound within premises of Nalanda Mahavihara in Bihar.
About Stupa:
- Stupa (Sanskrit: heap) is a mound-like (hemispherical) burial structure containing relics of Buddhist monks. E.g. Sanchi Stupa built over Buddha relics.
- Architectural features of Stupa –
- A hemispherical mound or anda’s (egg) shaped dome
- A square railing or harmika Central pillar supporting a triple-umbrella form (chattra), representing three jewels of Buddhism.
- Enclosure wall with decorated gateways (toranas) at cardinal directions.
- A circular terrace (medhi) for ritual circumambulation.
About Nalanda Mahavihara:
- It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with archaeological remains of a monastic and scholastic institution.
- Time period – 3rd century BCE to 13th century CE.
- Famous scholars at Nalanda – Gautam Buddha, Mahavira, Nagarjuna, Dharampala, Dinnaga, Jinamitra Santaraksita etc.
- Pilgrim monks – Hiuen Tsang, I-tsing, etc.
- It prospered under Gupta Dynasty, Harsha of Kannauj and Pala Dynasty.
- It includes stupas, shrines, viharas (residential and educational buildings) and important art works in stucco, stone and metal.
Some Buddhist rock-cut caves are called Chaityas, while the others are called Viharas. What is the difference between the two? (2013)
- Vihara is a place of worship, while Chaitya is the dwelling place of the monks
- Chaitya is a place of worship, while Vihara is the dwelling place of the monks
- Chaitya is the stupa at the far end if the cave, while Vihara is the hall axial to it
- There is no material difference between the two
Reference: Times of India
