Question

Who laid the foundation of the great stūpa at Sanchi?

• A. Chandragupta Maurya
• B. King Bhoja
• C. Aśoka
• D. Mihirbhoja

Hint:

Emperor Aśoka is credited with the construction of thousands of stupas and pillars across India to spread Buddhism. The original core of many famous stupas, including Sanchi and Sarnath, was built during his reign.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Phase 1: Question Analysis
Objective: Determine the individual credited with the initial construction of the Great Stupa's foundation at Sanchi.
Phase 2: Historical Background
The Great Stupa at Sanchi (Stupa No. 1) is among India's most ancient stone edifices. Its original base was established by the Mauryan sovereign Aśoka the Great in the 3rd century BCE. Initially, it was a modest brick stupa constructed over the relics of the Buddha. Subsequent rulers, notably from the Shunga dynasty, augmented it to its current scale by encasing it in stone.
Phase 3: Conclusive Answer
Emperor Aśoka initiated the construction of the Sanchi Stupa's foundation.