What is a stupa ? Write …

The stupa (a Sanskrit word meaning a heap) originated as a simple semi-circular mound of earth, later called the anda. Gradually it evolved into a more complex structure, balancing round and square shapes. 

<font font-family="Cambria">There are several kinds of stupas, round and tall, big and small, and these have certain common features:</font>

<font font-family="Cambria">There is a small box placed at the centre or heart of the stupa which may contain bodily remains (such as teeth, bone or ashes) of the Buddha or his followers, </font><font font-family="Cambria">or things they used, as well as precious stones and coins.</font><font font-family="Cambria">The box known as relic casket was covered with earth.</font><font font-family="Cambria">Later, a layer of mud brick or baked brick was added on top and then the dome-like structure was sometimes covered with carved stone slabs.</font><font font-family="Cambria">Often, a path, known as the pradakshina patha, was laid around the stupa, which was surrounded with railings.</font>