HistoryAncient India: Thinkers, Beliefs and Buildings

What purpose did the mast called "yashti" serve in the architecture o…

What purpose did the mast called "yashti" serve in the architecture of a stupa?

Answer & explanation

Correct answer: option 2

The correct answer is Option (2) → Supported the chhatri (umbrella)

In a stupa, a mast called the yashti rose from the harmika, the small balcony-like structure on top of the mound, and it was often topped by a chhatri or umbrella.

NCERT (2026-27): “7.3 The structure of the stupa …
Arising from the harmika was a mast called the yashti, often surmounted by a chhatri or umbrella. Around the mound was a railing, separating the sacred space from the secular world.”