What is Sanchi Stupa, the motif on the new Rs 200 note

The Sanchi Stupa motif is part of the 17 features on the new Rs 200 note.

The Sanchi Stupa motif is a feature in the new Rs 200 note which is being introduced today. What is Sanchi Stupa?

Sanchi is a Buddhist complex, famous for its Great Stupa, on a hilltop at Sanchi Town in Raisen District of the State of Madhya Pradesh. The Great Stupa at Sanchi is one of the oldest stone structure in India and was originally commissioned by the emperor Ashokain the 3rd century BCE.

Its nucleus was a simple hemispherical brick structure built over the relics of the Buddha. It was crowned by the chatra, a parasol-like structure symbolising high rank, which was intended to honour and shelter the relics, according to Wikipedia.

The original construction work of this stupa was overseen by Ashoka, whose wife Devi was the daughter of a merchant of nearby Vidisha.

Sanchi was also her birthplace as well as the venue of her and Ashoka's wedding. In the 1st century BCE, four elaborately carved toranas (ornamental gateways) and a balustrade encircling the entire structure were added. The Sanchi Stupa built during Mauryan period was made of bricks. The complex flourished until the 11th century.

The Sanchi Stupa motif is part of the 17 features on the new Rs 200 note. The new note would be in circulation starting Friday and is aimed at increasing the lower denomination notes in the system.

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