Option b is the correct answer. The Sanchi Stupa was constructed by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka the Great in the 3rd century BCE. Originally a simple hemispherical brick structure housing the relics of the Buddha, it was later crowned with a chatra, symbolizing high rank and providing honor and shelter to the relics. Ashoka, overseeing its construction, had a personal connection to Sanchi, as his wife Devi hailed from nearby Vidisha. The stupa saw enhancements like elaborately carved toranas and a surrounding balustrade during the 1st century BCE. Originally built with bricks, the Sanchi Stupa holds immense significance in Indian architecture and remained relevant until the 11th century. Important Tips Stupas: Stupas, integral to Buddhist heritage, are moundlike structures often used for meditation and relic preservation. Origins: Stupas served as burial mounds since Vedic times, containing ashes and relics of the deceased. Symbolism: These structures symbolize a traditional burial cumulus, preserving remains and relics of the deceased. Ashokan Epoch: The zenith of stupa art was during Ashoka's reign. He is beleived to have constructed around 84,000 stupas, each enshrining Buddha's relics. Nine Principal Stupas: According to tradition, nine stupas were built, eight over relics and one over the vessel that held them. They stand at key sites: Rajagriha, Vaishali, Kapilvastu, Allakapa, Ramagrama, Vethadipa, Pava, Kushinagar, and Pippalvina. Structure: A stupa consists of cylindrical drum and circular anda, crowned by harmika and chhatra. Minimal variations exist in shape and size. img-12.jpeg