The Great Stupa at Sanchi, an important monument of ancient India, was originally commissioned during the reign of which Mauryan emperor?

Introduction / Context:
Monuments like the Great Stupa at Sanchi are key reference points in Indian art and architectural history. Exam questions frequently ask who built or commissioned such structures, because these details connect dynasties, rulers, and religious developments. The Sanchi Stupa is closely linked with the spread of Buddhism under Mauryan patronage.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question refers to the Great Stupa at Sanchi.
• It asks for the ruler who originally commissioned it.
• The options include rulers from very different periods and dynasties.

Concept / Approach:
The Great Stupa at Sanchi is one of the most famous Buddhist stupas in India and is traditionally associated with Emperor Ashoka of the Maurya dynasty. Although the site was enlarged and decorated by later dynasties, the original core stupa is credited to Ashoka, who promoted Buddhism after his conversion.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that Ashoka ruled in the third century BC and is known for his support of Buddhism. Step 2: Remember that Ashoka is associated with the construction of many stupas and pillars across his empire. Step 3: Identify Sanchi as one of the major sites where Ashokan stupas and inscriptions are found. Step 4: Look at the options and observe that Akbar and Humayun are Mughal emperors from a much later period. Step 5: Conclude that Ashoka is the only ruler among the options whose period and religion match the monument.

Verification / Alternative check:
You can verify by remembering that many exam guides state Sanchi Stupa built by Ashoka and later enlarged during the Shunga and other subsequent dynasties. The art on later railings and gateways is later, but the core structure goes back to his reign, which matches perfectly with this question.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A, Akbar, and Option B, Humayun, are Mughal emperors and belong to a different era and religious background. Option D, Narasimha, could refer to a later ruler or deity and is not associated with Sanchi. Option E, Harsha, ruled much later and is linked with other centres rather than the original construction of the Sanchi Stupa.

Common Pitfalls:
A common mistake is mixing up Buddhist monuments from different periods, such as confusing Ashokan stupas with later rock cut caves or Gupta temples. Another pitfall is seeing a familiar Mughal name like Akbar and selecting it without considering the time period. Always link Sanchi and Ashoka together in your revision notes.

Final Answer:
The Great Stupa at Sanchi was originally commissioned during the reign of Ashoka of the Maurya dynasty.