Hero Stone
Hero Stonesand Memorials of ancient India
What is a Hero Stone?Intricately carved sculptural work
installed in honour of individuals who made the supreme sacrifice
in defence of their community/ country/ village/ people.
The memorial is usually installed at the location of the battle
or in the village/ towns main square.
A practice prevalent in India from 3rd century BCE to 18th
century CE.
A Typical Hero StoneIntricately carved sculpture that is divided
into three parts vertically. The bottom panel is a depiction of
details of the heroic act. Middle panel shows the hero being led by
angels to heaven. The top panel shows the hero in heaven with
God.Details of the incident are inscribed in the space between
panels
VariationsTwo panel Hero Stones that depict only conflict
Two panel Stones that depict only conflict and salvation.
VariationsSingle panel Hero Stones that depict only the hero
ready for war.My interpretation the hero might have survived the
battle.
VariationsHero stones that are installed in a couples honor.
VariationsRecent Hero Stones depict the main character wielding
guns.
Other memorial stonesInscriptions installed in honor of
spiritual gurus who courted death by fasting unto death
Mainly followed by ascetics of Jain religious faith
These memorials are known as Nishiddhi
Other memorial stonesMemorials installed in honor of brave women
who fought the enemyWomen who would rather immolate themselves than
fall into the hands of the enemy after the death of their warrior
husbands.These memorials are known as Maha Satigal or Great Sati
stone.
