Patuxai, Vientaine, Laos

It is impossible to miss this monument located to the north of Lane Xang Avenue. At first glance one remembers Arc de Triomphe, Paris. With its impressive arches it is one of the most noticeable landmark in Vientiane.

The word Patuxai is derived from Sanskrit name Patujai (पटु  जय) meaning "Gate of Victory". Thanks Kusum D. Singh in helping me find the root word. 

 

History of monument:

The monument was built between 1957 and 1968 as a memorial for Laotians who fought against the French in their struggle for independence.

Though the Patuxai Monument resembles Arc de Triomphe, the French had no role in its architecture or design. Laos being under the French Protectorate from 1893-1953 has influenced its design, specially the arches. But, on looking closely, it very much reflects the Laos cultural heritage.

The US gave cement to make an airport but the cement resulted in construction of this magnificent monument.

The monument though is said to be not complete but it still carries a beauty with its incomplete construction.

 

Architecture:

Though the architecture of this monument has been greatly influenced by Arc de Triomphe, the decorations portray a blend of Hinduism and Buddhism.

Stupas with golden finial, lotus leaves are Buddhist whereas the images of Indra, Shiva reflect Hindu influence.

 

 

 

 

Dancing fountain in front of Patuxai

Families, children love to see the spurt of water at intervals.

On top of Monument is a central large tower surrounded by four small towers on four corners topped with a golden finial.  The alcove in the stupa have an image of Buddha in each. Chofah decorate the corners of stupa.

The five stupas represent the five principles of Buddhism and also the five principles of peaceful coexistence. Below it lotus petals form a base for stupas above.

All around are floral motifs.

Indra is seen in the central image below the stupas who is seen above the three headed Airawat or Irawaan. Airawat is the mount of Indra.

The monument has four arches each facing in four cardinal direction.

 Entrance to arch is decorated on both sides with mythological kinnaris-- half female and half bird each holding a torch.

kinnaris as seen on the other side of arch

 

Under croft of monument

 The most attractive is the under croft of monument. It is decorated with gilded reliefs.

Indra seated on three-headed Airawat or Irawan

Vishnu graces this side of monument. Vishnu is seen with four hands, in his right hand can be seen a sudarshan chakra, (conch, mace not visible). In his left hand can be seen a lotus, an oblong water pot.

Goddess Lakshmi and Saraswati can be seen sitting by his side.

Lord Shiva graces this side. He is seen under the canopy of Naga. In his hands, he holds a drum and a trident.

Another representation of Shiva. Kaal or the Kaal Bhairav, one who destroys fear and one who is beyond fear. He protects his devotees from fear and anger.

A stairway goes to the observation deck on top of the monument. It gives a panoramic view of Vientiane and Mekong. One can go up, a small fee is charged but it was closed when I visited the place.

It is very pleasant to spend some time near the fountains and see people enjoying themselves.