Stupas and Viharas Constructed due to the popularity of Buddhism and Jainism

During the ancient period, Buddhism and Jainism gained immense popularity in India and other parts of South Asia. As a result, numerous religious structures were constructed on a large scale to accommodate the growing number of followers. The two main types of structures that were built extensively were stupas and viharas.

Stupas:
- Stupas are mound-like structures that serve as a place of veneration for Buddhists. They are believed to house relics or remains of the Buddha or other important figures in Buddhism.
- These structures were constructed in various sizes, ranging from small to large, depending on the significance of the location and the importance of the relics contained within.
- Stupas were typically built with a circular or domed shape and were adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting Buddhist teachings and symbols.
- They were often located in prominent areas such as pilgrimage sites, monastic complexes, and important trade routes, attracting devotees and pilgrims from far and wide.
- Some famous stupas include the Sanchi Stupa in Madhya Pradesh, India, and the Great Stupa at Amaravati in Andhra Pradesh, India.

Viharas:
- Viharas, also known as monasteries, were constructed to provide accommodation and educational facilities for Buddhist monks and nuns.
- These structures served as centers for learning, meditation, and spiritual practice.
- Viharas were often built in close proximity to stupas, creating a symbiotic relationship between the two structures.
- They consisted of multiple rooms or cells for individual monks or nuns, along with common areas for communal activities.
- Viharas were designed to be peaceful and conducive to meditation, with courtyards, gardens, and serene surroundings.
- Some well-known viharas include the Nalanda University complex in Bihar, India, and the Jetavana Monastery in Shravasti, Uttar Pradesh, India.

The construction of stupas and viharas on a large scale not only facilitated the practice of Buddhism and Jainism but also had a significant impact on the cultural and architectural landscape of South Asia. These structures became important pilgrimage sites, centers of learning, and symbols of religious devotion, leaving a lasting legacy in the region.