Examine the structural evolution of Stupa architecture in ancient India: 1. The core of the early stupas comprised unburnt brick and dirt, which was later encased in dressed stone and decorated with elaborately carved stone railings and gateways known as toranas. 2. The practice of building stupas originated exclusively during the Gupta period as a revival of indigenous Brahmanical art. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

💡 Solution & Explanation

The first statement is correct, tracing the evolution from simple earthen burial mounds to sophisticated architectural marvels like Sanchi with stone medhis and carved toranas. The second statement is false because monumental stupa construction peaked much earlier under Mauryan and Sunga patronage, notably through Ashoka's redistribution of Buddha's relics. These architectural landmarks reflect the patronage extended by merchant guilds and monarchs alike toward Buddhist institutions.