The Bharhut Stupa is an ancient Buddhist monument located in Bharhut village, Satna district, Madhya Pradesh, India. Dating back to around the 2nd century BCE, it is one of the earliest and most important examples of Buddhist art and architecture in India.

Originally built during the Mauryan period and later expanded under the Shunga dynasty, the stupa was famous for its richly carved stone railings and gateways (toranas). These carvings depict scenes from the life of the Buddha, Jataka tales (stories of the Buddha’s previous births), nature spirits, symbols, and everyday life of ancient India. Instead of human figures, the Buddha was often represented symbolically through elements like the Bodhi tree, footprints, or the empty throne.