ASI To Develop 2,300-Year-Old Ujjain Stupa

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has planned to develop a 2,300-year-old stupa in Ujjain as a Buddhist heritage site.

The large and ancient Buddhist stupa, named 'Vaishya Tekri', is located near Kanipura village on the Maksi-Ujjain road, about 5 to 7 km from Ujjain city centre.

Built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, the stupa stands roughly 100 feet high with a base diameter of around 350 feet, making it significantly larger than the world-famous Sanchi Stupa.

According to Buddhist texts, Mahavamsa and Dipavamsa, Emperor Ashoka built the stupa as a place of worship for his wife Devi, a devout follower of Buddhism.

The site holds deep religious and historical importance for the Buddhist community, with devotees and monks gathering here annually for occasions such as Buddha Purnima and the World Peace Mahastupa Festival.

However, portions of the sprawling site have faced threats from agricultural encroachment and weathering on adjacent private farmlands, prompting local calls for comprehensive excavation and tighter protection by the ASI.

The ASI has assured that the monument is already under their protection and they are coordinating with the Madhya Pradesh government to develop it as a Buddhist heritage site.

Shivakant Bajpai, superintending archaeologist, ASI (Bhopal Circle), stated that the monument needs to be protected, conserved and made accessible to tourists.

The development of the Vaishya Tekri stupa is expected to boost tourism in the region and provide a significant boost to the local economy.

The ASI's efforts to restore and develop the ancient stupa will not only help preserve India's rich cultural heritage but also promote Buddhism and its values.

The Vaishya Tekri stupa is a significant historical and religious site, and its development as a Buddhist heritage site will be a major milestone in the preservation of India's cultural heritage.

In conclusion, the development of the 2,300-year-old Vaishya Tekri stupa in Ujjain as a Buddhist heritage site is a significant step towards preserving India's rich cultural heritage and promoting tourism in the region.