Correct Option
The correct option is Ujjain.
Explanation
Mauryan pillars, specifically those erected by Emperor Ashoka, are monolithic sandstone shafts known for their lustrous "Mauryan polish." These pillars are typically surmounted by elaborate capitals consisting of a bell-shaped lotus, an abacus, and an animal figure. They are geographically concentrated in the Gangetic plains and significant Buddhist sites.
Site Analysis
- Rampurva (Bihar): This is a confirmed site where two pillars were discovered: one crowned with a Bull capital and another with a Lion capital.
- Sankisa (Uttar Pradesh): This site contains a Mauryan pillar surmounted by an Elephant capital. It is associated with the Buddhist legend of the Buddha’s descent from the Tushita heaven.
- Lauriya-Nandangarh (Bihar): This location features one of the best-preserved Ashokan pillars, which is topped by a single Lion capital.
- Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh): While Ujjain was a significant provincial capital of the Mauryan Empire and Ashoka served as its governor (Viceroy) during his youth, it is not a site where a monolithic Ashokan pillar with a capital figure has been found.
Key Takeaway: The primary sites for Mauryan pillars with animal capitals are Sarnath, Sanchi, Rampurva, Sankisa, Lauriya-Nandangarh, Lauriya-Araraj, and Vaishali (Kolhua).