Mains Practice Questions

Introduction

The Mauryan Empire (322-185 BCE) played a crucial role in the spread of Buddhism across the Indian subcontinent. Mauryan art and architecture, particularly under Emperor Ashoka, became powerful tools for propagating Buddhist ideals and philosophy.

Body

Role of Mauryan Art and Architecture in Propagating Buddhist Ideals:

• Pillars and Edicts: Served as symbols of state authority and vehicles for Buddhist teachings
  • The most celebrated of the Ashokan pillars is the one erected at Sarnath, the site of Buddha's First Sermon where he shared the Four Noble Truths
• Rock and Pillar Edicts: Conveyed Buddhist principles and Ashoka's dhamma
  • The Girnar Rock Edict in Gujarat, which promotes non-violence and respect for all living beings
• Stupas and Spiritual Architecture: Stupas served as reliquaries and centers of Buddhist worship
  • The Great Stupa at Sanchi, originally commissioned by Ashoka, became a model for future Buddhist architectural developments
• Cave Architecture: Rock-cut caves for Buddhist monks and as worship centers
  • Barabar Caves in Bihar are renowned as the place of origin of the Ajivika sect of Buddhism.
• Symbolic Imagery: Use of symbols like the Dharma Chakra, Bodhi tree, and lotus to represent Buddhist concepts.
• Narrative Reliefs: Depictions of Buddhist stories and Jataka tales
  • Among the Jataka stories that are frequently depicted are Chhadanta Jataka, Vidurpundita Jataka, Ruru Jataka.

Conclusion

Mauryan art and architecture served as a powerful medium for propagating Buddhist ideals across the Indian subcontinent. The synthesis of imperial grandeur, spiritual symbolism, and technological innovation in Mauryan Buddhist art created a lasting impact on the religious and cultural fabric of the subcontinent.