With reference to ancient India, consider the following statements : 1. The concept of Stupa is Buddhist in origin. 2. Stupa was generally a repository of relics. 3. Stupa was a votive and commemorative structure in Buddhist tradition. How many of the statements given above are correct?

1. Statement 1: The concept of burial mounds or tumuli, from which the Stupa evolved, predates Buddhism. Such mounds existed in Vedic and pre-Vedic traditions. While Stupas became iconic Buddhist structures, the basic concept is not exclusively Buddhist in origin. Therefore, this statement is incorrect. 2. Statement 2: One of the primary functions of a Stupa was to serve as a repository of relics (śarīrika stupa) – typically the bodily remains of the Buddha or other saints. This statement is correct. 3. Statement 3: Stupas served various purposes within the Buddhist tradition. They were erected as votive offerings (uddeshika stupa) and as commemorative structures marking significant events or places associated with the Buddha's life (pāribhogika stupa). This statement is correct. 4. Since statements 2 and 3 are correct, the answer is (B) Only two.