Introduction to Ashoka and the Mauryan Empire

Who Was Ashoka?

• Ashoka was one of the most famous rulers of the Mauryan Dynasty.
• He ruled almost all of India and parts of present-day Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
• He was the grandson of Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Mauryan Empire.

Mauryan Empire – A Vast Kingdom

• The Mauryan Empire (321 BCE – 185 BCE) was the first large empire in Indian history.
• Ashoka ruled from 268 BCE to 232 BCE.
• The capital of the empire was Pataliputra (modern-day Patna, Bihar).

The Kalinga War and Its Impact on Ashoka

What Was the Kalinga War?

• Kalinga (modern-day Odisha) was an independent and prosperous region.
• Ashoka wanted to conquer Kalinga to expand his empire.
• In 261 BCE, Ashoka’s army fought a bloody battle against Kalinga.

Horrors of the Kalinga War

• Over 1,00,000 people were killed in the war.
• Thousands of soldiers and civilians were injured or captured.
• Cities and villages were destroyed.

How Did the War Change Ashoka?

• Ashoka was deeply affected by the suffering of the people.
• He realized that war only brings pain and destruction.
• He renounced violence and decided to follow Buddhism.

Ashoka’s Transformation – From Conqueror to a Peaceful Ruler

• After the Kalinga War, Ashoka stopped fighting wars.
• He decided to rule through peace and kindness, not violence.
• He adopted Buddhism and started spreading its teachings.
• He believed that a good ruler should take care of his people like a father.

Dhamma – Ashoka’s New Policy of Kindness and Welfare

What Is Dhamma?

• “Dhamma” is Ashoka’s policy of moral values and kindness.
• It was based on Buddhist principles like non-violence, truth, and tolerance.

Main Teachings of Ashoka’s Dhamma

• Ahimsa (Non-violence) – Do not harm any living being.
• Religious Tolerance – Respect all religions and beliefs.
• Kindness to All – Treat people like family.
• Helping the Poor and Sick – Build hospitals and provide care.
• Justice and Fairness – Treat everyone equally.

How Did Ashoka Spread His Dhamma?

• Ashoka wanted everyone to follow the path of peace and kindness.
• He sent Buddhist monks and missionaries to different countries.
• He encouraged people to help the poor, respect elders, and avoid violence.
• He built rest houses, hospitals, and roads for travelers and common people.

Ashoka’s Edicts – Messages on Stone and Pillars

What Are Edicts?

• Edicts are official messages carved on rocks and pillars.
• Ashoka inscribed his teachings on stone tablets so people could read and follow them.

Features of Ashoka’s Edicts

• Written in Prakrit (local language) and Brahmi script.
• Carved on rocks and pillars across the empire.
• Spread messages of Dhamma, kindness, and justice.

Famous Ashokan Edicts

• Rock Edicts – Found in different parts of India, promoting peace and good governance.
• Pillar Edicts – Large stone pillars with Buddhist teachings.
• Major Edicts Locations – Sanchi (Madhya Pradesh), Sarnath (Uttar Pradesh), and Dhauli (Odisha).

Administration of the Mauryan Empire Under Ashoka

How Did Ashoka Rule His Empire?

• Ashoka divided his empire into provinces for better control.
• He appointed officials like governors (Mahamatras) to handle administration.
• Local leaders managed cities and villages.

Welfare Measures Taken by Ashoka

• Built hospitals for people and animals.
• Planted trees and dug wells along roads.
• Constructed rest houses for travelers.

Legacy of Ashoka – Why Is He Remembered Today?

Why Is Ashoka Considered a Great Ruler?

• First emperor to give up war and promote peace.
• Encouraged religious tolerance and kindness.
• Spread Buddhism to other countries (Sri Lanka, China, Myanmar, etc.).
• Built great monuments like stupas and pillars.

Ashoka’s Symbols in Modern India

• The Lion Capital of Ashoka (Sarnath) is India’s national emblem.
• The Ashoka Chakra (wheel) is on the Indian flag.

Conclusion

• Ashoka was one of India’s greatest rulers, who initially expanded his empire through war.
• The Kalinga War deeply affected him, and he renounced violence and adopted Buddhism.
• He introduced Dhamma, promoting non-violence, religious tolerance, and social welfare.
• Ashoka spread his messages through edicts (rock and pillar inscriptions).
• His administration focused on justice, welfare, and kindness.
• He is remembered today for his contributions to peace, Buddhism, and Indian history.