Kesariya Stupa
News: The Kesaria Stupa, located in Bihar, India, is considered to be the largest and tallest Buddhist stupa in the world.
Introduction to Kesaria Stupa:
- The Kesaria Stupa, situated in Bihar, India, holds the distinction of being the largest and tallest Buddhist stupa globally.
Architectural Features:
- It is 104 feet tall and has a circumference of about 400 feet.
- Its unique circular shape and construction with bricks and stone make it a standout example of Buddhist architecture.
- The stupa’s design includes numerous niches and alcoves that once housed statues and relics of Lord Buddha.
- The outer surface of the stupa is covered with white plaster, which gives it a stunning look.
- The dome is crowned by an umbrella-like structure called Harmika, which is made of stone and decorated with beautiful carvings.
Importance of Kesariya Stupa:
- It is believed that the stupa was built to commemorate the spot where Lord Buddha gave his 22nd sermon and also to mark the place where he announced his impending death.
- Buddha here at Kesaria said that in his previous births he ruled as Chakravarti Raja.
- Buddha also asked Licchivis to return to Vaishali after giving them “BEGGING BOWL.”
- The excavation has revealed the terraces with “Pradakshina path” around the stupa and figures of Lord Budha in “Bhoomi Sparsh Mudra” and other sitting image.
Historical Mentions:
- Chinese travelers Fa Xian and Xuan Zang, who visited India during the 5th and 7th centuries respectively, documented their encounters with the stupa.
- Alexander Cunningham,the father of Indian archaeology, provided the first detailed account of the stupa’s significance in the early years of archaeological exploration.