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Excavation in Ujjain Could Uncover Major Buddhist Stupa
Sentiment: NeutralHigh Priority
What Happened?
Excavations at Vaishya Tekri in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, may reveal a Buddhist stupa larger than the one in Sanchi, enhancing Ujjain's status as a tourist destination.
Key points
- Vaishya Tekri is set for excavation after 90 years, believed to contain a significant Buddhist stupa.
- The stupa may exceed 350 feet in base and 100 feet in height, larger than Sanchi's 54 feet.
- Excavations could reveal historical artifacts from the Mauryan period, including smaller stupas and skeletons.
- The site has been recognized by the Archaeological Survey of India and requires land acquisition for further excavation.
- Ujjain's historical significance includes connections to Ashoka and potential links to Pataliputra.
Key insights
- A larger stupa could attract international Buddhist tourists, particularly from Southeast Asia.
- The findings may enhance Ujjain's cultural heritage status, paralleling that of Sanchi.
- The excavation could uncover links to ancient healing practices and historical figures like Jivika.
Why it matters
The excavation could significantly boost Ujjain's appeal as a tourist destination for both Hindus and Buddhists.
Entities
Ujjain· CityMadhya Pradesh· StateAshoka· PersonSanchi· LocationVaishya Tekri· LocationM.B. Garde· PersonShivkant Bajpai· PersonNayanjot Lahiri· PersonJivika· Person
Source
India Today
