Question

What historical event is commemorated by the Ashokan pillar at Vaishali?

• A. Ashoka’s victory in the Kalinga War.
• B. The establishment of the Buddhist monastic system.
• C. Ashoka's coronation as emperor.
• D. Buddha's last sermon, delivered at this very site.

Answer 1

Answer:

D. Buddha's last sermon, delivered at this very site.

The Ashokan pillar at Vaishali stands apart from earlier Ashokan pillars as it features a single lion capital instead of multiple figures. Located near the site of an ancient Buddhist monastery and a sacred coronation tank, the pillar holds great historical significance. The lion faces north, symbolizing the direction Buddha took on his final journey. Nearby, a small tank known as Ramkund is also present. Following the Kalinga War, Emperor Ashoka embraced Buddhism and commissioned this pillar at Vaishali to commemorate Buddha’s last sermon, which was delivered at this very site.