Stambha

Stambha (tower in English) is a pillar or column found in India. In the context of Hindu mythology, it is believed to be a cosmic column that functions as a bond, joining heaven (Svarga) and earth (Prithvi). A number of Hindu scriptures, including the Atharva Veda, feature references to Stambhas. In the Atharva Veda, a celestial stambha has been described as an infinite scaffold, which supports the cosmos and material creation.

Kirti Stambha at Chittorgarh fort in Rajasthan, India

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A Stambha was and is also used in the context of Indian architecture. Different Stambhas serve different purposes, including the following:

• Dhvaja Stambha (Flagstaff Towers) are placed opposite the main shrine, on an axis with the main deity.
• Kirti Stambha (Glorious Tower) & Vijaya Stambha (Victory Tower) are erected to commemorate victories.
• The most well-known stambhas of India are the Ashoka Stambha (Pillars of Ashoka) — erected during the reign of Ashoka, spread across the subcontinent, bearing different types of royal edicts.
• Adi Purana — a huge manastambha — stands in front of the samavasarana of the tirthankaras, which causes entrants to a samavasarana to shed their pride.[1]