4.9.3. Popular traditions

Other sculptures at Sanchi were perhaps not directly inspired by Buddhist ideas. These include beautiful women swinging from the edge of the gateway, holding onto a tree. Initially, scholars were a bit intrigued about this image, which seemed to have little to do with renunciation. However, after examining other literary traditions, they realised that it could be a representation of what is described in Sanskrit as a shalabhanjika. According to popular belief, this was a woman whose touch caused trees to flower and bear fruit. It is likely that this was regarded as an auspicious symbol and integrated into the decoration of the stupa.

The shalabhanjika is a figure depicted in sculptures that symbolizes fertility and prosperity. Her presence suggests that early Buddhist art was influenced by local beliefs and traditions, incorporating elements that represented good fortune. This highlights how art was not purely religious, but also cultural, reflecting the values and hopes of the community.

Imagine a modern-day decoration at weddings where symbols like flowers or fruit baskets are used to wish the couple prosperity and a fruitful life. Just like the shalabhanjika, these symbols carry meanings that are culturally significant and are used to bless important events.

There are other images as well. For instance, some of the finest depictions of animals are found there. These animals include elephants, horses, monkeys and cattle. While the Jatakas contain several animal stories that are depicted at Sanchi, it is likely that many of these animals were carved to create lively scenes to draw viewers. Also, animals were often used as symbols of human attributes. Elephants, for example, were depicted to signify strength and wisdom.

The inclusion of animals in sculptures at Sanchi serves multiple purposes. Firstly, they add vibrancy and liveliness to the artwork. Secondly, each animal carries symbolic meanings that communicate certain qualities, like elephants representing strength and wisdom. This use of animals in art shows how deeply connected human values and nature were in cultural expressions.

Think of a sports team logo that features an animal, like a lion for courage or an eagle for vision. Just as these logos symbolize the characteristics valued by the team, the animals in Sanchi’s sculptures embody qualities admired in life, bringing them into the cultural narrative.

The shalabhanjika motif suggests that many people who turned to Buddhism enriched it with their own pre-Buddhist and even non-Buddhist beliefs, practices and ideas.

As people embraced Buddhism, they did not leave behind their traditional beliefs; instead, they integrated them into their new faith. The visible motifs and elements from earlier practices show how religions often evolve through the blending of different beliefs, creating a rich tapestry of cultural and spiritual expression.

Consider how many cultures celebrate Christmas today with a mix of traditions like caroling and decorating trees, despite its origins in a specific religious context. Just as these traditions merge to form a celebration that everyone can enjoy, the integration of pre-Buddhist ideas into Buddhism allowed it to resonate more deeply with the local culture.

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