Question

How were stupas built in ancient India?

Answer 1

(1) There were several stages in building a stupa.
(2) Generally, it was the rulers or their wives who decided to build them. They probably spent money from their treasury to support those who worked on building these splendid structures.
(3) Once decided, good quality stone was a necessity. Stone was then quarried and worked on to build these splendid structures.
(4) Skilled labourers and artisans were called to the place of construction.
- The rough blocks of stone had to be shaped and carved.
- They then had to be placed in precisely the right position.
(5) Whenever devotees came to visit these stupas, they often brought gifts which were used to decorate the building.
- For instance, an association of ivory workers paid for one of the beautiful gateways at Sanchi.
- Others who paid for decorations included merchants, farmers, garland-makers, perfumers and smiths. Also, hundreds of men and women are known only by their names inscribed at different places of stupas.