The correct option is Lion, Horse, Bull, Elephant.
Explanation
The Sarnath Lion Capital was originally erected by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka around 250 BCE to mark the spot where the Buddha first preached the Dharma. It was adopted as the National Emblem of India on January 26, 1950.Analysis of the Abacus:
The capital consists of four Asiatic lions standing back to back, mounted on a circular abacus (drum). This abacus rests on a bell-shaped lotus. The frieze of the abacus features high-relief sculptures of four animals moving in a clockwise direction, separated by four intervening wheels (Chakras).
The four animals depicted are:
- Elephant: Symbolizes the conception of the Buddha (referencing Queen Maya’s dream of a white elephant entering her womb).
- Bull: Represents the zodiac sign Taurus, the month of the Buddha's birth.
- Horse: Symbolizes the Mahabhinishkramana or the Great Departure, when Prince Siddhartha left his palace.
- Lion: Represents the attainment of enlightenment.
Options containing the Tiger, Deer, or Rhino are factually incorrect regarding the figures carved on the abacus.
Key Takeaway:
The circular abacus of the Sarnath Lion Capital features four specific animals: the Elephant, Horse, Bull, and Lion, interspersed with Ashoka Chakras.