The pillars, stupas, and inscriptions that carry Ashoka's message across millennia
The national emblem of India, originally placed atop the Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath.
Built by Ashoka to enshrine relics of the Buddha, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Monolithic columns bearing edicts, spread across the Indian subcontinent.
The peace pagoda at Dhauli, where Ashoka's transformation began after the Kalinga War.
Inscriptions carved on rocks and boulders found throughout the empire.
Originally built by Ashoka at the site of Buddha's enlightenment in Bodh Gaya.
Inscribed on rocks throughout the empire, these edicts proclaimed Ashoka's policies and moral principles to his subjects
Banned animal slaughter and promoted vegetarianism in royal festivals.
Established medical facilities for humans and animals throughout the empire.
Promoted respect for parents, teachers, and all elders in society.
Proclaimed the spread of righteousness over warfare as the true conquest.
Appointed Dharma Mahamatras to promote moral welfare among all communities.
Declared duty to work for the welfare of all people at all times.
Promoted tolerance and respect for all religious traditions.
Replaced pleasure tours with Dhamma yatras to holy sites and teaching tours.
Emphasized that moral conduct is the true ceremony, not rituals alone.
Rejected fame and glory in favor of the practice of Dhamma.
The gift of Dhamma (righteousness) is the greatest gift of all.
Called for restraint in speech and respect for other religions.
His remorse for the Kalinga war and commitment to peaceful conquest through Dhamma.
A summary of his edicts and encouragement to his people to follow Dhamma.
The symbols of Ashoka's era continue to represent the values of the Republic of India
National Flag of India
The 24-spoke Dharma Chakra (Wheel of Law) from Ashoka's Lion Capital adorns the center of India's national flag. The navy blue wheel represents the eternal wheel of law and the cycle of time.
Each of the 24 spokes is said to represent virtues like love, courage, patience, righteousness, and self-sacrifice—principles that Ashoka himself championed.
National Emblem of India
The Lion Capital of Ashoka from Sarnath was adopted as India's national emblem on January 26, 1950. The four lions symbolize power, courage, confidence, and pride.
Below the lions, the motto "Satyameva Jayate" (Truth Alone Triumphs) from the Mundaka Upanishad embodies India's commitment to truth and dharma—values Ashoka lived by.
The Lion Capital appears on Indian currency, symbolizing the nation's rich heritage.
Numerous universities and awards bear Ashoka's name, including the prestigious Ashoka University.
India's highest peacetime military decoration, named after the great emperor's wheel of dharma.
"Whoever praises his own religion, due to excessive devotion, and condemns others with the thought 'Let me glorify my own religion,' only harms his own religion."
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