Question

Which of the following statements best distinguishes the Ashokan pillar at Vaishali from other Ashokan pillars?

• A. It is located near a sacred coronation tank called Ramkund.
• B. It marks the site where Emperor Ashoka fought his final battle.
• C. It features a single lion capital facing north, unlike the multi-figure capitals of other pillars.
• D. It was built to honor Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism after the Kalinga War.

Answer 1

Answer:

C. It features a single lion capital facing north, unlike the multi-figure capitals of other pillars.

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.