Archeological survey of india discovered two 1200-year-old miniature votive stupas at nalanda.

Why in news?

• Votive stupas (offered in fulfillment of a vow) were discovered near Sarai Tila mound within premises of Nalanda Mahavihara in Bihar.
• Stupa, Sanskrit for heap, is a mound-like (hemispherical) burial structure containing relics of Buddhist monks.
  • g. Sanchi Stupa built over Buddha relics.

Architectural features of Stupa

• A hemispherical mound or anda’s shaped dome
• A square railing or harmika
• Central pillar supporting a triple-umbrella form (chattra), representing three jewels of Buddhism. >
• Enclosure wall with decorated gateways (toranas) at cardinal directions.
• A circular terrace (medhi) for ritual circumambulation.

About Nalanda Mahavihara

• It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with archaeological remains of a monastic and scholastic institution from 3rd century BCE to 13th century CE.
• Gautam Buddha as well as Mahavira stayed at Nalanda.
• Other famous scholars at Nalanda Nagarjuna, Dharampala, Dinnaga, Jinamitra Santaraksita etc.
• Imminent pilgrim monks like Hiuen Tsang and l-tsing also visited.
• It prospered under Gupta Dynasty, Harsha of Kannauj and Pala Dynasty.
• It includes stupas, shrines, viharas (residential and educational buildings) and important art works in stucco, stone and metal.