Public Administration in Ancient India c20.27

c20.27

The objects of the Buddhist art, according to Mr. Fergusson, fall under the following five heads: (1) Stambhas or Lāts, which were always among¹ the most original, and frequently the most elegant, productions of Indian art; (2) Stūpas, containing either the relics of Buddha or of some Buddhist saint, or erected to commemorate some event or mark some sacred spot dear to the followers of Buddhism; (3) Rails, which were works of exquisite beauty; (4) Chaityas or Assembly Halls were the Buddhist temples of religion, corresponding to the Churches of the Christians; (5) Vihāras and Sanghārāmas, or monasteries, which were the residences of monks and centres of educational and charitable establishments.