Excavation and Restoration of Vaishya Tekri
The Madhya Pradesh government has initiated efforts to excavate and restore monuments associated with the Mauryan emperor Ashoka, focusing on Vaishya Tekri in Ujjain. The project holds significant historical importance for the region.
Background and Historical Significance
- Ujjain, a crucial city in the Mauryan era, is traditionally linked with Ashoka before his ascent as emperor.
- ASI mentions the possibility of a larger stupa than the Sanchi stupa at this site, necessitating thorough scientific study.
Original Excavation Findings (1938-39)
- The initial excavation by the Gwalior State’s Archaeological Department established that the mound was a significant stupa rather than a natural formation.
- The stupa was described as "huge" with a base diameter of approximately 350 feet and a height of not less than 100 feet, compared to the 54 feet height of the Sanchi stupa.
- The construction featured local blackish murum for the core and brick masonry with mud mortar for the exterior.
- Bricks, unusually large in size, served as chronological evidence indicating a Mauryan-era structure.
- Two coins, a punch-marked coin and a cast Avanti coin, were found, supporting potential connections to Ashoka.
Engineering and Structural Features
- The stupa's construction included a unique engineering device with the masonry at its base shaped like a bowl to support and counteract the structure’s weight.
- The surrounding landscape was altered to form a moat, with evidence of a passage for worshippers.
Modern Challenges
- The government and ASI need to secure control over the site, requiring the acquisition of private land, proposed at Rs 40 crore, for excavation to proceed.
- Restoration aims to retain the site's integrity without causing damage.
