NDA 2025 · PYQ · Buddhist Art and Architecture / Sanchi · medium
Which one of the following sculptures found at Sanchi Stupa is NOT directly inspired by Buddhist ideas?
A.Empty seat
B.Shalbhanjika✓ Correct
C.Tree
D.Wheel
Explanation
The Shalbhanjika (woman holding a tree branch) sculpture at Sanchi Stupa is not directly inspired by Buddhist ideas; it is derived from older folk traditions and represents fertility and auspiciousness, often associated with Yakshi figures from indigenous nature worship. The empty seat symbolizes the Buddha's meditation, the tree represents the Bodhi tree under which he attained enlightenment, and the wheel (Dharmachakra) represents his first sermon — all directly Buddhist symbols.
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