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1. The Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath

2. The Vaishali Pillar of Ashoka

3. The Allahabad-Kausambi Ashoka Pillar

4. The Lauriya Nandangarh Ashoka Pillar

5. The Rampurva Ashoka Pillar

6. The Delhi-Meerut Ashoka Pillar

7. The Ashoka Pillar at Topra

Why the Ashoka Pillars Matter?

Where are the Ashoka Pillars Located?

7 Ashoka Pillars in India: History, Locations And Significance of Edicts!

Q: What are Ashoka Pillars, and where are they located?

Ashoka Pillars are monumental stone pillars built by Emperor Ashoka across India to promote moral values. They are located at sites like Sarnath, Vaishali, and Rampurva. Each pillar features inscriptions conveying Ashoka’s messages on ethics.

Q: Who built the Ashoka Pillars, and why?

Emperor Ashoka of the Maurya dynasty built these Ashoka pillars in the 3rd century BCE to spread his teachings on Dhamma, or moral law. They were intended to inspire peace, compassion, and respect for all life across his empire.

Q: How many Ashoka Pillars exist today?

Out of the original estimated 30–40 Ashoka Pillars, about 19 still stand today. Many have been damaged or lost over time, but the remaining pillars continue to be revered as symbols of India’s ancient heritage.

Q: What messages are inscribed on the Ashoka Pillars?

The Ashoka Pillars contain inscriptions that promote principles like non-violence, kindness, and truthfulness. These messages, known as Ashoka’s Edicts, encouraged moral behavior and religious tolerance among his subjects, reflecting Ashoka’s commitment to a just rule.

Q: Which languages were used in the inscriptions on the Ashoka Pillars?

The inscriptions on Ashoka pillars are primarily in Prakrit, written in the ancient Brahmi script. Some pillars in Afghanistan also have inscriptions in Greek and Aramaic, reflecting Ashoka’s inclusive approach to spreading his ideals.

The Ashoka Pillars are remarkable symbols of ancient Indian history, representing Emperor Ashoka’s journey from a ruler known for his battles to one remembered for his teachings on peace, morality, and compassion. Built during the 3rd century BCE, these Pillars of Ashoka stand in various parts of India today, each with unique stories, messages, and inscriptions known as the Edicts of Ashoka. Originally dotting the landscape in great numbers, these pillars faced the tests of time, weather, and human conquest.

Today, 20 of these magnificent structures still survive, each one a masterpiece of early Indian stone craftsmanship. What makes them even more special is that they are India’s oldest known stone inscriptions, offering us a rare glimpse into the advanced Mauryan civilization.

In this article, we’ll explore seven prominent Ashoka Pillars in India and uncover the history, significance, and fascinating details of these monuments.

1. The Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath

The Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath in Uttar Pradesh is one of the most famous of all. This Ashoka Pillars marks the spot where Buddha first taught the Dharma after achieving enlightenment. The pillar originally had a four-lion capital known as the Lion Capital of Ashoka. These lions, standing back-to-back, represent strength, courage, and unity, making it a fitting emblem for the Indian state. This original Ashoka Pillar is especially significant because it promotes Buddhist values and symbolizes peace and the spread of wisdom.

The Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath is also known for its smooth sandstone, which has survived thousands of years. The importance of Ashoka Pillars like this one is highlighted by their continued relevance; the lion capital of Ashoka is still seen on Indian currency and serves as the country’s official emblem.

Timings: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Fridays.
Entry Fee: Rs. 5 for Indian visitors and Rs. 100 for foreigners. This ticket often grants access to nearby archaeological sites, including Dhamek Stupa and the museum.

Suggested Read: World Heritage Sites in India

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Q:What are Ashoka Pillars, and where are they located?

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Q:Who built the Ashoka Pillars, and why?

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Q:How many Ashoka Pillars exist today?

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Q:What messages are inscribed on the Ashoka Pillars?

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Q:Which languages were used in the inscriptions on the Ashoka Pillars?

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