Stambha
# Stambha

A stambha (Sanskrit: स्तम्भ, romanized: stambha) is a pillar or a column employed in Indian architecture. A stambha sometimes bears inscriptions and religious emblems.

## Religion

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

* Vijay Stambha at Chittorgarh fort
* Kirti Stambha of Hutheesing Jain Temple
* Ashoka Pillar
* The stambha of Parshwanath Jain Mandir, Belgachhiya
