All About Bharhut Stupa & Early Stupa Worship

1. Introduction to Bharhut Stupa

• Location: Bharhut, Madhya Pradesh, India

• Period: Built during the Sunga Dynasty, around 2nd century BCE

• Material: Primarily red sandstone

• Builder: Possibly commissioned by a Sunga ruler, often associated with King Dhanabhuti

• Significance: One of the oldest surviving Buddhist stupas; known for its intricately carved railings and gateways

2. Architectural Features of Bharhut Stupa

3. Artistic Features of Bharhut

• Narrative Panels:
  Depict Jataka tales (stories of Buddha’s previous births) and scenes from Buddha’s life.

• Aniconism:
  Buddha is represented symbolically – through footprints, empty throne, Bodhi tree, dharma wheel, etc., not in human form.

• Inscriptions:
  Many donation inscriptions in early Brahmi script, mentioning names of donors—monks, nuns, laymen, and women from various regions.

• Folk Elements:
  Use of local traditions, motifs, and animals, blending Buddhist and regional art.

4. Importance of Bharhut in Early Stupa Worship

➤ 1. Ritual Worship (Puja & Pradakshina)

• Devotees walked around the stupa in a clockwise direction (pradakshina) as an act of devotion.

➤ 2. Symbolism

• The stupa symbolized the Buddha’s enlightened mind and presence.

• The harmika (square railing at the top) symbolized the abode of the gods.

➤ 3. Community Participation

• Donor inscriptions reflect public involvement in religious art and construction.

• Women and merchants were equal contributors in patronizing the stupa.

5. Comparison with Other Early Stupas

6. Legacy of Bharhut Stupa

• Preserved early Buddhist iconography and narrative traditions.

• Showcased the transition from aniconic to iconic art in Buddhism.

• Artifacts from Bharhut are preserved in the Indian Museum, Kolkata.

• Helped historians understand religious life, art, trade, and society in early India.

Conclusion

The Bharhut Stupa is not just a monument but a living document of early Buddhist devotion, art, and social interaction. It represents the fusion of religion, folk culture, and aesthetics, and marks a significant phase in the evolution of Indian temple architecture and sculpture. Early stupa worship, as reflected in Bharhut, laid the spiritual and artistic foundation for Buddhist architecture across Asia.

Bharhut Stupa

Also Read : India’s Ancient Universities

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