Three times bigger than Sanchi: Madhya Pradesh plans excavation in Ujjain to uncover a 2,200-year old stupa that was built by Ashoka

Madhya Pradesh plans to resume exploration of a large Buddhist stupa at Vaishya Tekri. This Mauryan-era structure, larger than Sanchi's, has remained largely unexplored since 1939. Excavation work halted previously due to a gas leak incident affecting laborers. Authorities are now coordinating for a fresh excavation to understand the monument's original design. Historical records suggest a possible connection to Emperor Ashoka and his wife Devi.