Asokan pillar Achaemenian Pillar.
Smooth surface of Pillar Persian pillars are fluted
Monolithic Built of separate segments
Free standing pillar Were part of some larger architectural scheme, composed of too many parts
shape and ornamentation of the Maurya lotus is different Lotus shape and orientation are different and independent animals carved are different.
Use of polished stone Use of polished stone
In the Mauryan pillars, the inverted lotus appears at the top of the shaft. The Persian pillars stand on bases either shaped like a bell or a plain rectangular or circular block.