India Mint Stamp

Lokith Philately

Permanent Pictorial cancellation of Bihar

Permanent Pictorial Cancellation inaugural day covers

Date of issue: 08.10.2024

Pin code: 843101

Status: Active

PO Name: Kolhua Bakhra

Description: Kolhua, situated approximately 65 km northwest of Patna, holds immense historical and cultural significance as a Buddhist archaeological site. It is renowned for its association with Emperor Ashoka and the Buddha. The centrepiece of this site is the magnificent Ashoka pillar, adorned with a life-sized lion sculpture perched atop a polished red sandstone shaft towering 18.3 meters high. This awe-inspiring monument serves as a poignant commemoration of the Buddha's final sermon. Adjacent to the pillar, a brick stupa, believed to enshrine a portion of the Buddha's ashes, is encircled by the remnants of monasteries and votive stupas that were excavated in the early 20th century. Dating back to the 6th century BCE, Vaishali, located near Kolhua, held the distinction of being the capital of the Licchavi Republic. This historical city was frequently visited by the Buddha, and it was here that he granted admission to women into the monastic order (Sangha) and predicted his imminent nirvana. 

Vaishali also holds significant importance in Jainism as the birthplace of Lord Mahavira, the religion's founder. Emperor Ashoka, the illustrious third Mauryan emperor, erected pillars throughout his vast empire to propagate his message of justice, non-violence, and political unity. These pillars, including the iconic lion-crowned pillar in Kahua, epitomize the moral authority and persuasive influence that Ashoka sought to exert over his subjects. Despite enduring the passage of over 2,000 years and the ravages of time and nature, the lion at Kolhua stands as a testament to Ashoka's enduring legacy. Notably, this lion is one of the 19 surviving pillars of Ashoka, embodying the emperor's enduring ideals that continue to inspire India to this day. It is fascinating to note that the national emblem of India draws inspiration from another of Ashoka's pillars, specifically the one located in Sarnath. This pillar features four lions symbolizing power, courage, confidence, and pride, deeply resonating with the rich historical and cultural heritage of India.