NDA General Ability Question (2025) — Solution

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The sculptures at Sanchi Stupa include various symbols that represent the Buddha and his teachings. The empty seat indicates the meditation of the Buddha, the tree symbolizes his enlightenment, and the wheel stands for his first sermon. These are directly inspired by Buddhist ideas. The Shalbhanjika motif, which depicts a woman holding a tree branch, is derived from popular pre-Buddhist beliefs. According to these beliefs, her touch caused trees to flower and bear fruit. This auspicious symbol was incorporated into Buddhist art but was not directly inspired by Buddhist ideas. Answer: Shalbhanjika