Stambha

In Hindu mythology, a stambha 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. In the legend of Narasimha, an avatara of Vishnu, the deity appears from a stambha to slay the asura Hiranyakashipu. The stambha has been interpreted to represent the axis mundi in this myth by Deborah A. Soifer. == Architecture ==

Stambhas are popularly employed in Indian architecture. Different stambhas serve different purposes, including the following: • A dhvaja stambha (flagstaff tower) is placed opposite the main shrine, on an axis with the main deity. • A kirti stambha (glorious tower) and 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. • The Adi Purana — a huge manastambha — stands in front of the samavasarana of the tirthankaras, which is regarded to causes entrants to a samavasarana to shed their pride. ==Gallery==

File:Tower of victory.jpg|Vijay Stambha at Chittorgarh fort File:Hutessing Temple3 Ahmedabad.JPG|Kirti Stambha of Hutheesing Jain Temple File:Ashoka pillar at Vaishali, Bihar, India.jpg|Ashoka Pillar File:Stambha of Parshwanath Jain Mandir, Belgachhiya 13.jpg|The stambha of Parshwanath Jain Mandir, Belgachhiya ==See also==