Question

The 'Toranas' at stupa I in Sanchi are known for its intricate works.

• A. Stone carving in relief
• B. Wood carving in relief
• C. Ivory carving in round
• D. Metal casting

Hint:

Logic Tip: Sanchi gateways = Narrative Buddhist scenes carved in stone relief.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept:
The Great Stupa at Sanchi is one of the most important monuments of Buddhist art and architecture in India. The beautifully decorated Toranas (gateways) are world famous for their detailed narrative carvings executed in stone relief.

Step 1:
The Great Stupa at Sanchi was originally commissioned during the reign of: \[ Emperor Ashoka \] and later enlarged during the Shunga and Satavahana periods. Important architectural parts include:
• Hemispherical dome (Anda)
• Harmika
• Chattra
• Vedika railing
• Four Toranas (gateways)

Step 2:
The Toranas are monumental gateways placed in four cardinal directions around the stupa. These gateways are richly decorated with:
• Jataka tales
• Buddhist symbols
• Floral motifs
• Yaksha and Yakshi figures
• Scenes from Buddha's life The carvings are executed in: \[ Stone relief sculpture \]

Step 3:
Relief carving is a sculptural technique in which figures project slightly from a flat stone background. At Sanchi:
• The figures are carved directly on stone surfaces
• Depth and narrative movement are created through layered carving
• Sculptures remain attached to the background stone Thus, the Toranas are famous for: \[ Stone carving in relief \]

Step 4:
Option (2): Wood carving in relief
Although some structural forms imitate wooden architecture, the actual Toranas are made of stone. Option (3): Ivory carving in round
Ivory carving is unrelated to the Sanchi gateways. Option (4): Metal casting
The Toranas were not cast in metal; they were carved from stone blocks.

Step 5:
The Sanchi Toranas are historically significant because they:
• Represent early Buddhist narrative art
• Show advanced stone carving techniques
• Preserve symbolic representation of Buddha
• Reflect social and religious life of ancient India They are considered masterpieces of early Indian sculpture.

Step 6:
Since the Toranas of Sanchi are famous for relief sculpture executed in stone, the correct answer is: \[ \boxed{\text{(1) Stone carving in relief}} \]