ABSTRACT
It is suggested here that the creation of the archaeological landscape of Buddhist sites in the 19th and early 20th century by colonial officials cannot be detached from the study of relics and relic worship. This chapter starts with discussing the evidence for devotion to the relics that was integral to Buddha dhamma. It includes the role of the patron of Buddhism in early India, King Ashoka in the distribution and re-enshrinement of relics, as recorded in Buddhist texts and underscores the mortuary landscape around main stupas such as at Sanchi, Taxila and so on, as also changes in mortuary practices. It then proceeds to discuss developments in the colonial period that resulted in the rediscovery of relics as stupas were dug into for gems and other precious deposits and reliquaries deposited in museums or else gifted to friendly political powers to cement ties.
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