4.7.3. The structure of the stupa

The stupa (a Sanskrit word meaning a heap) originated as a simple semi-circular mound of earth, later called anda. Gradually, it evolved into a more complex structure, balancing round and square shapes.

The term 'stupa' comes from the Sanskrit word for heap. Initially, stupas began as basic mounds made from earth, representing a simple shape known in construction terminology as 'anda', which means 'egg' or 'semi-circular mound'. Over time, the design became more intricate, featuring a combination of round and square forms, symbolizing the balance between the earthly and the heavenly realms in Buddhist thought.

Imagine how a simple sand mound made at the beach could evolve into a beautifully sculpted sandcastle with towers and walls. Just as children get creative and expand their ideas as they build, the design of the stupa expanded and evolved to reflect the growing complexity of Buddhist beliefs.

Above the anda was the harmika, a balcony-like structure that represented the abode of the gods. Arising from the harmika was a mast called the yashti, often surmounted by a chhatri or umbrella. Around the mound was a railing, separating the sacred space from the secular world.

The stupa is not just a simple mound but has several important components. Directly above the mound, the harmika represents a heavenly balcony, signifying the presence of divine entities. From the harmika, a vertical mast called the yashti rises, often topped with a chhatri or umbrella, symbolizing the cosmic tree or the heavenly abode. Additionally, the stupa is enclosed with a railing that demarcates sacred space from the mundane world, reinforcing its sanctity.

Think about a church with a steeple. The steeple rises above the building, symbolizing a connection between the earth and the heavens. Similarly, the harmika and yashti of the stupa create a vertical reference that represents the spiritual ascent towards the divine.

The early stupas at Sanchi and Bharhut were plain except for the stone railings, which resembled a bamboo or wooden fence, and the gateways, which were richly carved and installed at the four cardinal points. Worshippers entered through the eastern gateway and walked around the mound in a clockwise direction keeping the mound on the right, imitating the sun’s course through the sky.

In their initial design, stupas like those at Sanchi and Bharhut had a simplistic appearance, primarily featuring railings that looked similar to a bamboo fence. The gateways, however, were elaborate and decorative, representing significant points of entry aligned with the cardinal directions (north, south, east, west). Worshippers would enter through the eastern gateway and perform a ritual walk around the stupa in a clockwise manner, a practice symbolizing respect and reverence, similar to how the sun moves through the sky.

Imagine walking around a large fountain in a park. You walk in a circle while experiences different views and perspectives as you pass by. Walking around the stupa is akin to appreciating the beauty of the fountain while symbolizing a journey of devotion and meditation.

Later, the mound of the stupas came to be elaborately carved with niches and sculptures as at Amaravati, and Shah-ji-ki-Dheri in Peshawar (Pakistan).

As Buddhism flourished, the design of stupas became increasingly detailed and ornate. The stupas transitioned from simple earth mounds to elaborate structures featuring intricate carvings, niches, and sculptures. Sites like Amaravati and Shah-ji-ki-Dheri are key examples where artistic creativity reached new heights, turning the stupa into a narrative canvas illustrating Buddhist tales and teachings through art.

Think of how a child's drawing evolves from basic stick figures to detailed scenes with colors and complex backgrounds. Similarly, the stupa's transition to a rich artistic structure represents the deepening of Buddhist narratives and the community's commitment to expressing their beliefs visually.

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