Survival of Sanchi Stupa
- Sanchi, discovered in 1818, retained three standing gateways and a well-preserved mound, with the fourth gateway lying where it had fallen.
- Although there were suggestions to relocate the gateway to Paris or London, factors such as preservation efforts and local support helped maintain Sanchi’s integrity.
- The relatively intact state of Sanchi compared to Amaravati highlights the importance of proactive conservation measures.
- The decision to retain Sanchi’s gateways in their original location demonstrates a commitment to preserving the site’s authenticity.
- Local support and community engagement played a crucial role in safeguarding Sanchi from further degradation and exploitation.
“Discovering” Stupas The Fate of Amaravati and Sanchi| Class 12 History Notes
Class 12 History “Discovering” Stupas The Fate of Amaravati and Sanchi: In 1796, a local ruler intending to construct a temple stumbled upon the ruins of the stupa at Amaravati. Believing there might be treasure buried within the mound, the ruler decided to repurpose the stone from the site. British official Colin Mackenzie visited the site later, documenting sculptures but never publishing his findings.
The accidental discovery of the Amaravati stupa by a local ruler underscores the unpredictability of archaeological findings. The initial intention to repurpose the stone from the stupa highlights the lack of awareness about the historical and cultural significance of the site.