Ashokan Pillar
Vaishali, India
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- Explore-the-pillar-site
- Learn-about-Mauryan-history
- Meditate-in-peaceful-surroundings
Known for:
Description:
The Ashokan Pillar at Vaishali is a towering sandstone column, a relic of Emperor Ashoka's reign in the 3rd century BCE. It stands as a significant historical monument, marking the spot where Buddha delivered his last sermon. The pillar, though now without its crowning lion capital, exudes an aura of ancient grandeur and spiritual significance. Its smooth, polished surface and the Brahmi inscriptions it once bore (now mostly faded) are a testament to the Mauryan Empire's artistic and engineering prowess. The surrounding area is serene, making it a peaceful place for reflection and historical exploration. It is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those seeking spiritual connection.
History:
The Ashokan Pillar at Vaishali is believed to have been erected by Emperor Ashoka around 250 BCE, during the Mauryan Empire. Ashoka, a convert to Buddhism, installed these pillars across his kingdom to spread Buddhist teachings and mark significant sites. This particular pillar commemorates the location where Buddha delivered his last sermon before his final journey to Kushinagar. Though the lion capital that once adorned the pillar is now missing, the pillar itself remains a significant historical artifact. The inscriptions, originally in Brahmi script, would have contained edicts and teachings of the emperor. The pillar stands as a reminder of the Mauryan Empire's influence and its role in the propagation of Buddhism in India.