Pillars of Ashoka
The Pillars of Ashoka are a series of monolithic columns dispersed across the Indian subcontinent, attributed to Emperor Ashoka the Great who reigned from approximately 268 to 232 BCE. These pillars are a testament to Ashoka's devotion to the propagation of Buddhism, as well as his commitment to promoting the concept of Dharma, or moral law.
Historical Context
The erection of the Ashoka Pillars occurred during the Mauryan Empire, a significant period in ancient Indian history characterized by its rich cultural and artistic advancements. Ashoka, also known as Ashoka the Great, was one of the most illustrious rulers of this era, having played a pivotal role in the spread of Buddhism following his conversion after the bloody Kalinga War.
Architectural Features
The Ashoka Pillars are renowned for their architectural elegance and feature some of the earliest examples of Mauryan art. Typically made from sandstone or granite, these pillars were meticulously polished—a technique known as Mauryan polish. Each pillar stands independently with inscriptions that convey Ashoka's policies and moral teachings.
Most pillars were erected at important Buddhist monasteries and other sites significant to the life of the Buddha. The top of these pillars often features a sculpture, the most famous being the Lion Capital of Ashoka, which has been adopted as the official State Emblem of India.
Inscriptions and Edicts
The inscriptions on these pillars, known as the Edicts of Ashoka, provide crucial insights into Ashoka’s governance and his dedication to the welfare of his subjects. These edicts were written in various scripts, such as Brahmi and Kharosthi, and languages, including Prakrit. The Major Pillar Edicts are among the most significant, highlighting Ashoka's philosophical outlook and administrative reforms.
Notable pillars include the Delhi-Topra pillar and the Allahabad Pillar, each inscribed with texts promulgating Ashoka’s vision of a unified empire underpinned by ethical governance.
Legacy and Influence
The Ashoka Pillars not only represent an architectural and artistic achievement but also reflect the fusion of indigenous and foreign influences. While some historians like Upinder Singh argue that these pillars share similarities with Persian pillars, particularly in their use of stone and sculptural elements, it is clear that they remain distinct in their purpose and aesthetic.
These structures have left a lasting legacy, inspiring subsequent generations and cultures within and beyond India. Their importance is such that replicas and inspirations continue to appear in modern times, reinforcing the timeless relevance of Ashoka’s message of peace and tolerance.