December 27 – GS1/History: 2025 | UPSC Daily Answer Writing Practice PDF Download

Q1. Examine the significance of pillars in Mauryan architecture. (GS 1 UPSC Mains)

Answer:

Introduction

The tradition of building pillars is very old. Even in ancient times, like during the Achaemenid Empire, people used to construct pillars. But the pillars made during the Mauryan period were quite different and special when compared to those of the Achaemenids. These differences can be seen in the way they were built, decorated, and used.

Body

1. Method of Construction: 

• Mauryan pillars were made from a single block of stone, which means they were rock-cut. This shows the high level of skill and talent of the carvers. 
• In comparison, the pillars of the Achaemenid Empire were made in separate parts and then joined together by masons. This shows that the Mauryans had more advanced techniques in stone carving.

2. Decorative Top Part (Capital Figures):

• The top part of Mauryan pillars, called the capital, was beautifully carved with animal figures like lions, bulls, and elephants. These animals were made in a way that they looked full of energy and strength. 
• They stood on a square or circular base, called the abacus, which was decorated with lotus patterns. These lotuses were not real but designed in a stylised form, adding beauty to the structure.

3. Example – Lion Capital of Sarnath:

• One of the best examples of Mauryan art is the Lion Capital of Sarnath, which is now used as India’s national emblem. It shows four lions standing back to back on a circular abacus. 
• Below the lions, the abacus is carved with the figures of a horse, a bull, a lion, and an elephant, all in motion. These animals are carved with great detail and skill. This capital represents a very important event – the Buddha’s first sermon (Dhammachakrapravartana). 
• Because of its fine work and deep meaning, it has become a strong symbol in Indian history.

4. Use of Material and Polishing Skills:

• Mauryan pillars were made using fine sandstone, and the surface was polished so well that it shines like mirror. 
• This polishing is similar to the shine seen in Northern Black Polished Ware (NBPW) pottery of that time. The fact that each pillar was carved from a single piece of stone shows how advanced the artisans were during the Mauryan period.

5. Spread of Artistic Knowledge:

• Mauryan pillars are found in many parts of India, which tells us that the artistic knowledge and carving techniques were not limited to one region. 
• This skill and style of pillar-making had spread throughout the vast Mauryan Empire, showing a strong system of sharing knowledge and art.

6. Link with Buddhism and Ashoka’s Dhamma:

• Many of these pillars were used by Emperor Ashoka to spread his message of Dhamma, which included moral teachings and principles of Buddhism. 
• Ashoka got his edicts (inscriptions) written on these pillars so that common people could read and understand the teachings. In this way, the pillars were not just decorative but also had a practical use in spreading messages and guiding the people.

Conclusion

In summary, the Mauryan pillars were not only beautiful works of art but also served a useful purpose in spreading important messages and showing the power and culture of the Mauryan Empire. Their strong structure, detailed carvings, smooth polish, and connection with Buddhist teachings make them important symbols of India's rich history and governance system. They show how the Mauryan Empire combined art, skill, and philosophy in a unique way.