Question

What is the primary historical significance of the Ashokan pillar at Vaishali?

• A. It commemorates the site where Ashoka was crowned emperor.
• B. It marks the location of Buddha’s last sermon and symbolizes his final journey.
• C. It was built to honor a major victory of Ashoka in Vaishali.
• D. It served as a boundary marker for ancient Vaishali.

Answer 1

Answer:

B. It marks the location of Buddha’s last sermon and symbolizes his final journey.

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.