Consider the following statements about Stupas and choose the correct option from below : A. The word 'Stupa' is an architectural term and means something which is raised up by accumulation. B. The custom of erecting 'Stupas' as a form of memorial to the dead was pre-Buddhist.

Correct Answer: C. A and B both are true.

Explanation: Stupas Stupas were burial places prevalent in India since Vedic times. They are a traditional form of mortuary that housed the remains and bones of the dead. The art of stupa reached its zenith during the time of Ashoka. Around 84,000 stupas were built during his time. Although stupas are a Vedic tradition, they were popularised by the Buddhists. After the death of Buddha, nine stupas were built. Eight of them housed the remains of Buddha in his Medhi, while the ninth contained the vessel in which the remains were originally kept. Example: Sanchi Stupa in Madhya Pradesh is the most famous of the Ashokan stupas. Piprahwa Stupa in Uttar Pradesh is the oldest. The locations of the nine stupas built after the death of Buddha are Rajgir, Vaishali, Kapilvastu, Allakappa, Ramagrama, Vethapida, Pawa, Kushinagar and Pippalivana.