📚 Part of: Madhya Pradesh Geography And Social Activism Mcqs

Identify this monument in Madhya Pradesh which has remains of Gautam Buddha

Category: Madhya Pradesh Gk

Correct Answer: A) Sanchi Stupa.

Exam Relevance: UPSC Civil Services, State PSC Exams, Madhya Pradesh GK Exams, History Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes:

Sanchi Stupa is a significant Buddhist monument located in Madhya Pradesh, India. It is renowned for its historical and religious importance, particularly as a site associated with Gautam Buddha. The stupa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its intricate carvings and historical significance.

Common Mistakes:
  • Confusing Sanchi Stupa with other Buddhist stupas like Dharmek Stupa or Chaukhandi Stupa.
  • Misunderstanding the historical and religious significance of Sanchi Stupa.
  • Not recognizing the UNESCO World Heritage status of Sanchi Stupa.
Explanation:

Sanchi Stupa, located in Madhya Pradesh, is a significant Buddhist monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is renowned for its historical and religious importance, particularly as a site associated with Gautam Buddha. The stupa is a large hemispherical dome that contains relics of the Buddha. It is believed that the stupa was originally commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, and it has been a site of pilgrimage and worship for Buddhists for centuries.

The Sanchi Stupa is not only a religious site but also an important archaeological site. It contains a wealth of Buddhist art and architecture, including intricate carvings and sculptures that depict scenes from the life of Buddha and other Buddhist stories. The stupa is surrounded by several smaller stupas, monasteries, and temples, all of which contribute to its historical and cultural significance.

The misconception that other stupas or temples might be associated with remains of Gautam Buddha in Madhya Pradesh is incorrect. Dharmek Stupa in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, is associated with the first sermon of Buddha, and Chaukhandi Stupa in Sarnath is associated with the first meeting of Buddha and his five disciples. The Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, is associated with the enlightenment of Buddha. None of these sites are located in Madhya Pradesh, and none of them contain remains of Gautam Buddha.

In conclusion, Sanchi Stupa is the correct answer as it is the only site in Madhya Pradesh that is associated with the remains of Gautam Buddha and is a significant Buddhist monument with historical and religious importance.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Sanchi Stupa is the correct answer. It is a significant Buddhist monument located in Madhya Pradesh and is known for its historical and religious importance, particularly as a site associated with Gautam Buddha. The stupa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its intricate carvings and historical significance.
  • Option B: Dharmek Stupa is incorrect. While it is a significant Buddhist monument, it is located in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, not in Madhya Pradesh. It is associated with the first sermon of Buddha but not specifically with remains of Gautam Buddha.
  • Option C: Chaukhandi Stupa is incorrect. It is located in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, and is associated with the first meeting of Buddha and his five disciples. It is not located in Madhya Pradesh and does not have remains of Gautam Buddha.
  • Option D: Mahabodhi Temple is incorrect. It is located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, and is associated with the enlightenment of Buddha. It is not located in Madhya Pradesh and does not have remains of Gautam Buddha.

Mnemonic: Sanchi Stupa: "S" for Sanchi, "B" for Buddha, "M" for Madhya Pradesh

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