Kesariya Stupa - Bihar

The Kesariya Buddhist stupa has lately come into the news after getting affected due to intense floods in the East Champaran district of Bihar. Earlier, the ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) announced the Kesariya Buddha Stupa as one of the most prominent Indian monuments with historical significance. This article will briefly discuss the famous Kesariya Stupa that will help you better prepare for your upcoming UPSC mains and prelims examination.

What is the Kesariya Stupa?

The Kesariya Stupa, commonly known as Kesariya Buddhist Stupa, is situated nearly 110 km from Patna, the capital city of Bihar. This Stupa maintains a rim of approximately 400 feet and holds a towering altitude of approximately 104 feet.

Various travellers from Buddhist nations visit this site every year, which is deemed the most significant Buddhist Stupa worldwide. The Stupa is termed Devalaya, the house of Gods among the local community.

Furthermore, as per the ancient history of the Kesariya Stupa, people believe Gautama Buddha himself resided at this place before he relocated to Kushinagar. Ancient opinions likewise follow that Gautama Buddha informed his followers at this place that he would shortly be attaining Nirvana.

Understanding the History of Kesariya Stupa

The primary structure of the Kesariya Stupa dates back centuries, and locals here believe that the initial Kesariya Stupa was constructed during the reign of the Mughal emperor Ashoka as a pillar of Ashoka from the leftovers of the old city was present at the location. The present Stupa was built between 200 AD and 750 AD in the Gupta dynasty.

Furthermore, as per popular belief, the Stupa was inaugurated at the time of the Gautam Buddha. The Kesariya Stupa was under the control of the Licchavis and Mauryas, and later gold coins were also found here. These gold coins carried the seal of the famous king Kanishka of the Kushan dynasty, prevalent between 30 AD to 375 AD, and this discovery assisted in establishing the origin of Kesaria Stupa.

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Kesariya Stupa's Significance for the Buddhist Community

Stupa construction is a well-known tradition in Monastic establishments, a normal part of Buddhist practices. It is likewise common to identify stone pillars, rock-cut caves in different places, and statues of enormous figures. In addition, according to ancient beliefs, different records from Buddha's life used to become a Buddhist custom. Some well-known events were also depicted from Buddha's life, including enlightenment, renunciation, birth, and mahaparinibbana.

In a nutshell, the ASI (Archeological Survey of India) has publicized that the Stupa is a safeguarded monument with national significance. However, the waterlogging at and near the Stupa may have caused some damage to the site, affecting tourism.

FAQs on Kesariya Stupa

Q1. Where is the Kesariya Stupa located?

The Kesariya Stupa is situated in a prime location nearly 110 km from Patna, the capital city of Bihar.

Q 2. What are the dimensions of the Kesariya Stupa?

The Kesariya Stupa maintains a rim of about 400 feet and holds an altitude of 104 feet.

Q 3. What is the famous history of the Kesariya Stupa?

The primary structure of the Kesariya Stupa dates back to the 3rd century BC. Furthermore, many people believe that the original Kesariya Stupa dates back to the time of the Mughal emperor Ashoka as a pillar of Ashoka from the remains of the old city was present at the location. The present Stupa dates back to the Gupta Dynasty, built between 200 AD and 750 AD.

Q 4. What is the other name of Kesariya Stupa as per the local community?

The Kesariya Stupa is termed Devalaya, the house of Gods among the local community.

Q 5. The gold coins discovered at the Kesariya Stupa belonged to which dynasty?

The gold coins discovered at the Kesariya Stupa carried the seal of the famous king Kanishka of the Kushan dynasty between 30 AD to 375 AD, and this discovery assisted in establishing the origin of Kesaria.