Q1. Early Buddhist Stupa-art, while depicting folk motifs and narratives, successfully expounds Buddhist ideals. Elucidate.

Model Answer:

Introduction

Early Buddhist Stupa art, particularly from the Maurya, Shunga, and Satavahana periods, played a crucial role in communicating Buddhist ideals. These artworks, often adorning the railings, gateways, and domes of stupas, reflected both local folk traditions and deeper religious messages, offering a unique synthesis of culture and spirituality.

Body

• Incorporation of Folk Motifs:
  • Early stupa art integrated popular folk elements, such as flora, fauna, and mythical creatures. For example, the lotus symbolises purity, while animals like elephants and lions denote strength and royal power.
  • Yakshas and Yakshinis (nature spirits), widely revered in local beliefs, are depicted to illustrate the protection of dharma.
• Narratives from Jataka Tales:
  • The Jataka tales, stories of the Buddha’s past lives, were a central feature of stupa art. They communicated Buddhist virtues like compassion, sacrifice, and non-violence in a relatable, visual manner.
  • Sculpted scenes like the Bodhisattva’s renunciation, his enlightenment, and episodes from his life story conveyed core Buddhist values.
• Symbolism of Non-Iconic Representations:
  • Initially, Buddha was not depicted in human form. Instead, symbolic representations like the Bodhi tree, wheel (Dharma Chakra), or footprints suggested his presence, highlighting the importance of detachment from physical form and the focus on spiritual ideals.

Conclusion

‍Early Buddhist Stupa art, through the fusion of folk motifs and narrative traditions, effectively illustrated the core tenets of Buddhism. By blending local cultural expressions with Buddhist principles, it made the teachings accessible to the masses, ensuring their widespread understanding and appeal.

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