Introduction
Emperor Ashoka, the illustrious ruler of the Mauryan Empire from 268 to 232 BCE, is widely celebrated for his conversion to Buddhism and his dedication to spreading the teachings of Lord Buddha. One of his most enduring legacies is the Ashoka Pillars, a series of monolithic columns erected across India and beyond. Each pillar bears witness to the emperor’s commitment to peace, moral values, and religious tolerance. In this blog post, we embark on a journey to explore the locations where Emperor Ashoka erected his iconic pillars and the significance they hold.
- Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh
Our journey begins in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, where Ashoka erected his first pillar. This site holds immense significance as it marks the spot where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, known as the “Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta” or the “Wheel of Dharma.” The Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath serves as a powerful symbol of Buddha’s teachings and Ashoka’s commitment to their propagation.
- Vaishali, Bihar
Moving eastward, we arrive in Vaishali, Bihar, home to another notable Ashoka Pillar. This pillar commemorates Lord Buddha’s visit to Vaishali and bears the emblem of four lions, which is now India’s national emblem. It stands as a testament to Ashoka’s aspiration for a united and harmonious society.
- Bodh Gaya, Bihar
Bodh Gaya, the place where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree, is also graced by an Ashoka Pillar. This pillar signifies Ashoka’s reverence for the place where Buddhism’s founder achieved spiritual enlightenment.
- Lumbini, Nepal
Crossing the border into Nepal, we find another Ashoka Pillar in Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Erected by Ashoka to honor Buddha’s birth, this pillar underscores the emperor’s devotion to Buddhism and his desire to promote the faith.
- Kausambi, Uttar Pradesh
Kausambi, an ancient city along the Yamuna River, hosts an Ashoka Pillar that serves as a historical relic of Ashoka’s reign and his promotion of dharma (righteousness) and peace.
- Sankissa, Uttar Pradesh
Sankissa is another site where Ashoka erected an iconic pillar. This location marks the spot where Lord Buddha is believed to have descended from the heavens after delivering a sermon to his mother.
- Kolkata, West Bengal
While many Ashoka Pillars remain in their original locations, one of them was relocated to Kolkata, West Bengal, during British rule. It stands in the Indian Museum and continues to be a symbol of Ashoka’s legacy.
Conclusion
The Ashoka Pillars scattered across India and Nepal serve as enduring symbols of Emperor Ashoka’s commitment to Buddhism, peace, and moral values. These majestic columns stand as testaments to the influence of Buddhism on ancient India and the emperor’s dedication to spreading its teachings. Visiting these pillars allows us to connect with the rich history of the Mauryan Empire and reflect on the timeless message of peace and enlightenment that they represent.