Ashoka pillar, Kutagarasala Vihara, Vaishali, Bihar

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Rising high, rooted deep. Ashoka pillar, Kutagarasala Vihara, Vaishali, Bihar

Today, we are in the ancient city of Vaishali—one of the world's earliest republics.Now an archaeological wonder nestled in the Vaishali district of Bihar, this site holds layers of history waiting to be explored. It served as the capital of the Vajjika League of Vrijji mahajanapada, dating all the way back to the 6th century BCE. Vaishali also played a starring role in Buddhism, as it was here that Gautama Buddha delivered his final sermon before attaining parinirvana around 483 BCE.

That's not all—Vaishali is also home to one of the most beautifully preserved Ashokan pillars, featured in today's image. Through stylistic and technical analysis, experts have pieced together a tentative timeline for the Ashokan pillars. The Vaishali pillar is believed to be one of the earliest, recognised by its short, sturdy column, the simplistic design of its rigid lion and the plain, undecorated square abacus. This pillar features a single lion capital and stands near the site of an ancient Buddhist monastery and a sacred coronation tank. Interestingly, the lion atop the pillar faces north, symbolising the direction Buddha took on his final journey. While more pillars are scattered across the region, they lack their original capitals, making this one a rare and remarkable find.