The lion capital shown in the image is one of the most famous symbols of ancient India, known as the Ashoka Pillar. This particular lion capital was discovered at
Sarnath, which is near Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Sarnath is a significant site as it is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The lion capital of the Ashoka Pillar represents the Emperor Ashoka’s embrace of Buddhism and his promotion of its teachings across his empire.
The lion capital has become a symbol of India's national emblem today.