About Sarnath
- Sarnath, located near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, is one of the four principal Buddhist pilgrimage sites.
- It is traditionally identified as the place where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya.
- The first sermon is known as Dharmachakra Pravartana, or the “Turning of the Wheel of Dharma.”
I. Four Principal Buddhist Pilgrimage Sites
The four principal pilgrimage sites are associated with major events in the life of Gautama Buddha:
- Lumbini – Nepal: Birth of Buddha.
- Bodh Gaya – Bihar: Enlightenment (Sambodhi).
- Sarnath – Uttar Pradesh: First Sermon (Dharmachakra Pravartana).
- Kushinagar – Uttar Pradesh: Mahaparinirvana.
II. Chaukhandi Stupa
- Located at Sarnath.
- Traditionally associated with the place where Buddha met his first five disciples after attaining enlightenment.
- The monument represents different phases of construction and modification.
- Its distinctive octagonal tower was added during the Mughal period.
III. Dhamek Stupa
- One of the most prominent monuments in the Sarnath archaeological complex.
- Traditionally associated with the place where Buddha delivered his first sermon.
- The structure has Mauryan-period foundations, with subsequent additions and renovations.
- It is notable for its cylindrical form and carved stone decoration.
IV. Dharmarajika Stupa
- Located within the archaeological remains of Sarnath.
- Traditionally associated with Emperor Ashoka, who established Buddhist stupas at important sites.
- The stupa underwent several phases of construction and enlargement.
- Its remains are an important part of the Buddhist archaeological heritage of Sarnath.
V. Ashokan Pillar at Sarnath
- Erected during the reign of Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE.
- It represents the characteristic Mauryan stone-working tradition, including highly polished sandstone.
- The pillar is particularly significant because its capital carried the famous Lion Capital.
- The pillar and its associated remains are part of the archaeological heritage of Sarnath.
VI. Lion Capital of Sarnath
- The Lion Capital originally formed the capital of the Ashokan Pillar at Sarnath.
- It depicts four Asiatic lions standing back-to-back.
- The abacus below the lions contains representations of animals and the Dharma Chakra.
- The Lion Capital of Sarnath was adopted as the State Emblem of India.
- The Dharma Chakra has 24 spokes and is represented at the centre of India’s national flag.
| This concept has been elaborately discussed in the following article – Ancient Buddhist Site of Sarnath: UNESCO World Heritage Recognition. |