Interpretation project at the Great Stupa at Sanchi, UNESCO World Heritage Site

HDC commissioned by the he Archaeological Survey of India to develop an interpretive plan and mobile phone app for the Sanchi Stupa UNESCO World Heritage Site located at Sanchi Town in Raisen District of the state of Madhya Pradesh, India.

The Great Stupa at Sanchi is the oldest stone structure in India. It was originally commissioned by the emperor Ashoka the Great in the 3rd century BCE. Its nucleus was a simple hemispherical brick structure built over the relics of the Lord Buddha. It was crowned by the chatra, a parasol-like structure symbolising high rank, which was intended to honour and shelter the relics. The construction work of this stupa was overseen by Ashoka's wife, Devi herself, who was the daughter of a merchant of Vidisha. Sanchi was also her birthplace as well as the venue of her and Ashoka's wedding.

In the 1st century BCE, four elaborately carved toranas (ornamental gateways) and a balustrade encircling the entire structure were added.