Heliodorus Pillar is an interesting monument located about 3 km from
Vidisha in
Madhya Pradesh. Its carvings reflect the Buddhist and Hellenistic influences.
It was erected around 113 BC by Heliodorus, a Greek ambassador from Taxila (now in north-west Pakistan). The pillar, surmounted by a sculpture of Garuda (eagle), is dedicated to Vasudeva, Lord Krishna's father.
There are two inscriptions engraved on the pillar. One contains the situation of Heliodorus and his relationship to the Sunga and Indo-Greek kings. The other one describes the Buddhist precepts for the achievement of enlightenment.
Vidisha Railway Station is about 4 km away.
