Maurya Empire

INTRODUCTION #

The rise of the Mauryan Empire amongs the 16th Mahajanapadas marked the beginning of the era of empires. The state was welfare towards its subjects. The period of throughout the sub-continent was marked by the rise of trade, urban centers, pros- perity and war for expansion, consolidation and at times reconciliation.

In the 6th century BC, there existed 16 large states in India, which are known as 16 Mahajana- padas. They are Kasi, Kosala, Anga, Magadha, Vajji or Vriji, Malla, Chedi or Cheti, Vamsa or Vatsa, Kuru, Panchala, Machcha or Matsya, Surasena, Assaka or Ashmaka , Avanti, Gandhara & Kamboja. The names of at least 9 among them are given in the Vedic Literature. Panini in the 4th century BC mentions as many as 22 different Janapadas, but also mentions 3 most important viz. Magadha, Kosala and Vatsa.

SIXTEEN MAHAJANAPADAS #

The society in Vedic period was rural, where smallest political unit was a Vis. However, some later Vedic texts detail about the Janapadas such as Kuru, Panchala, Matysa, Kunti, Kikata, Jayminia, Kashi, Magadha, Anga, Kamboja etc. The rise of Janapadas is mainly attributed to the establishment of settled agriculture communities. The development of an agriculture based economy led to increase in crops and cattle wealth coupled with use of iron technology. The society was now totally divided into 4 Varnas. Based upon occupation, new labour class and landed classes emerged. The landed class was known as Gahapatis. The trade flourished and the towns, which were either located on trade routes

such as Mathura or located, near the banks of rivers such as Magadha developed. This transition also saw an emergence of taxing, standing army, territorial powers etc.

The sixteen Mahajanapadas are as follows:

Kasi #

Its Capital was Banaras. Kasi was located on the confluence of Ganga and Gomti rivers and somewhere around today’s Varanasi.

Kosala #

Its capital was Shravasti. Kosala was located in the Eastern Uttar Pradesh. It covers today’s districts Faizabad, Gonda, Bhahraich etc. and was bordered by River Gomti on the west, River Sadaniva in the east, Nepal hills in the north and River Syandika in the South.

Anga #

Its Capital was Champa. It covered the modern districts of Munger and Bhagalpur in Bihar It was later annexed to Magadha by Bimbisar. Magadh was on its west and Raja Mahal hills on the East.

Magadha #

Its capital of Girivraja or Rajgriha. It covered the modern districts of Patna, Gaya, Shahabad of Bihar. It was bordered by River Son on North and Ganga on South.

Vajji or Vriji #

Its capital was Vaishali. It was located on the north of River Ganga in Bihar. The seat of 8 smaller clans / kingdoms called “Athakula” out of which

Lichhavais, Janatriks, Videhas were very important. It was separated from Kosala from river Gandak.

Malla #

Its Capital was Kushinagar, Pawa. It covered the modern districts of Deoria, Basti, Gorakhpur in Eastern Uttar Pradesh.

Chedi or Cheti #

It was located in the Bundelkhand division of Madhya Pradesh regions to the south of river Yamuna and along river Betwa or Vetravati. Its cap- ital was Suktimati or Sotthivati located somewhere near Banda in Uttar Pradesh.

Vatsa #

Its capital was Kausambi. It covered the mod- ern districts of Allahabad and Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh.

Kuru #

Its Capital was Indraprastha / Hastinapur / Isukara. It covered the modern Haryana & Del- hi-Meerut-Ghaziabad region. Its eastern border was River Yamuna.

Panchala #

Its capital were Ahichhtra (Western Panchal) and Kampilya (eastern Panchala). It covered modern day Rohilkhand division & Upper Gangetic Plains of today’s Uttar Pradesh & Uttarakhand.

Matsya #

Its Capital was Viratnagar. It was located in the Alwar, Bharatpur, Jaipur districts of Rajasthan.

Surasena #

Its Capital was Mathura. It was located on the junction of Uttarpatha and Dakshinpatha around Mathura of Today.

Assaka #

Located on the banks of the Godavari River, its capital was Potali, Potana or Podana, which now lies in the Nandura Tehsil, Buldana district in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It was the only Mahajanapada situated to the south of the Vindhya Range, and was in Dakshinapatha.

Avanti #

Its capital was Ujjain & Mahismati. Located on present day Malwa region. It was divided into two parts by the Vindhyas, the northern part had its capital at Ujjayini and the southern part had its centre at Mahishmati.

Gandhara #

Its capital was Taxila. It Covered the regions between Kabul and Rawalipindi in North Western Provinces, Peshawar, the Potohar plateau and on the Kabul River.

Kamboja #

Its capital Rajpur. It was located around Punchh area of Kashmir.

THE   POLITICAL   SUMMARY   OF MAGADHA EMPIRE #

Most powerful of all the Mahajanapadas was Magadha. Magadha was located near today’s Patna & Gaya. The first notable thing about Magadha was its geographical location which gave its rulers a strateigc advantages to become a dominent power. Magadha was located between Ganga River in North, Son River in West, Vindhya ranges in south and Champa in East. The three sides protected the territory with 3 river fronts, and it was not easy to invade Magadha so easily. The earliest capital of Magadha was Girivraja.

Brihadrath Dynasty #

The earliest known king of Magadha is Bri- hadrath. Name of Brihadrath appears in Rig-Veda (I.36.18, X.49.6). Magadha is mentioned in Athar- vaveda. The puranic sources say that Brihadrath was the eldest son of Vasu. According to Ramayana, Vasu founded Vasumati and Grivraja. Brihadrath founded the Brihadrath dynasty. His son was Jaras- andha. Name of Jarasandha appears in Mahabharta and Puranas many times. Jarasandha was inimical to Yadavas and that is why he is mentioned as a villain in the Mahabharat. Jarasandha was a powerful king and a devotee of Shiva who at the time of his birth was in two pieces of human body born to two wives of Brihadrath. These two pieces were thrown into the forest on the order of Brihadrath. In the Forest,

a Rakshashi known as Jara found these two pieces. When she joined them, they became one and thus the name Jarasandha (one who was joined by Jara was given). In the Mahabharta war, Jarasandha was killed by Bhima. The time period assigned to Jaras- andha is approximately 1760 BC. Sahadev who also was killed in the epic war of Mahabharta succeeded him. The Brihadrath Dynasty ended approximately 8th century BC.

Pradyota Dynasty #

Brihadrath dynasty was taken over by the Pradyota dynasty, which ruled Magadha for 138 years. Pradyota dynasty kings used to kill their fathers as a tradition to become kings. So patricide was common in Magadha.

Haranyaka Dynasty #

People get annoyed by this bloody tradition of patricide and civil revolt uprooted the Pradyota dynasty. The Buddhacharita by Asvaghosa mentions that it was Bimbisara of the Haranyaka Dynasty, which succeeded the Pradyota dynasty.

Bimbisara #

Bimbisara was the first great king of the Haran- yaka Dynasty. Bimbisara was the most remarkable king of the pre Mauryan dynasties of Magadha. He used the policy of marital alliances to expand his kingdom, a tradition which was not yet seen in any dynasty. He also used a policy of sending envoys to strengthen the bilateral relationships. Bimbisara had 4 wives. These wives were a result of Bimbisara’s Policy of dynastic alliances. His chief queen was Khema. The 4 queen of Bimbisara were Kosala Devi, sister of Pasendi or Prasenjit of Aiksvaka dynasty. Kashi was given to Bimbisara as a dowry gift in his marriage with Kosaladevi. Chellena the daughter of Cetaka or Chetaka, the Licchhavi King of Vaishali who was brother of Trishla, mother of Mahavira. Khema or Kshema was daughter of Madra King of Punjab. Vaidehi was daughter of Videha King.

This proves that Bimbisara used matrimonial alliances to expand his kingdom. For example: Kosala Devi brought Kasi under his rule. However, Kashi later became the cause of hostility between his son Ajatshatru and his brother in law Pasendi.

Bimbisara was great in military skills as well. He

defeated Brahamdatta of Anga and annexed Anga in Magadha. Further territories were also were annexed to Magadha by Bimbisara.

Religion of Bimbisara #

Both Traditions (Jainism and Buddhism) call him as their followers. Bimbisara was contemporary of both Mahavira and Buddha. The Jain texts men- tion that he was a disciple of Lord Mahavira. The Buddhist texts mention that he met Buddha before enlightment. Buddha promised him to visit his cap- ital after he gets enlightment. He was a patron of Buddha and as a mark of goodwill, he presented the Bamboo Grove (karanda venu vana) to the Sangha.

However, Bimbisara’s life ended with a trag- edy. He was imprisoned by his son Ajatshatru who starved him to death. So, like many of predecessor kings he was also a victim of patricide.

In Bimbisara, we find a very efficient politician who had a clear vision of the political situation at his time. His success is attributed largely to the matrimonial alliances he made. He was known as Shrenik as per the Jain texts, which means that he had a large standing army. He is supposed to be one of the first kings to have a large standing army. After becoming a king at the age of 15 years, he not only expanded the empire but also patronized both the rising religions at that time. His success was also due to the efficient administration machinery, in which the Rajbhats or Mahamattas i.e. Royal officers were divided into many classes.

Ajatshatru #

The period assigned to Ajatshatru’s rule is 491 BC to 461 BC. He was son of Bimbisara’s wife Vaidehi so, the Buddhist texts mention his name as Vaidehi Putra Ajatshatru. Ajatshatru was not the only son of Bimbisara. There were many sons and daughters from his all wives but Ajatshatru proved to be dominant. He killed his father by starving him to death, this is what Buddhist traditions say. However, Jaina texts say that he was not involved in patricide. However, most scholars agree that he ended the life of his father.

The Buddhist texts related that he after starving his father to death, expressed remorse in front of Buddha, who said him, “Go and no sin more…..”.

He was instigated for this crime by Devadatta. Devadatta was a distant cousin of Buddha who wanted to usurp Sangha. The killing of Bimbisara brought enmity between Ajatshatru and Pasendi, the king of Kosala. His sister Kosala Devi died of shock of his husband’s tragic end. Pasendi immediately confiscated Kashi, which was given as a gift to Kosala Devi in marriage. Kasi remained a disputed territory between Pasendi and Ajatshatru for a long time. The dispute was later solved and result was in favour of Ajatshatru, who not only absorbed Kasi to his kingdom Magadha but also got daughter of Pasendi named Vajira.

Ajatshatru expanded his territories by fighting a war with Licchhavis also. There were many reasons for his enmity towards the Licchhavis such as his half bothers were sheltered by Licchhavis, trade on the banks of river Ganga, a mine of gems near Ganga and most important the rising power of Licchhavis, which Ajatshatru wanted to destroy. The war continued for 16 years and ended in favor of Ajatshatru who absorbed the Licchhavis in his empire.

Mahshilakantaka & Rathamusala #

Mahshilakantaka & Rathamusala were two war equipments used (invented) by Ajatshatru against Licchhavis. The Mahshilakantaka was an engine kind of equipment which ejected big stones. The Rathamusala was a Chariot which a musala (mace or blade) attached at both sides of chariot which when ran, caused a lot of casualties. It was also known as scythed chariot, which was invented by Ajatshatru.

During the times of Ajatshatru, both Buddha and Mahavira attained Nirvana. Makkhali Gosala or Gosala Maskariputta, the founder of Ajivikas path also attained Nirvana during the time of Ajatshatru.

Ajatshatru and First Buddhist Council #

Ajatshatru shared the relics of Buddha and enshrined them in a stupa. He also renovated 18 Buddhist Monasteries. Immediately after the death of Buddha, Ajatshatru sponsored the First Buddhist Council, which was organized in a hall erected by him outside the Sattaparnaguha Cave or Sattapani caves in Rajgir. This meeting was presided by Elder Mahakassapa. In this council Ananda recited Sutta Pitaka and Upali recited Vinaya Pitaka.

Legacy of Ajatshatru #

Ajatshatru built a fort at Pataliputra and so is known as founder of Patna. Many texts mention that is son Udayin developed Pataliputra as a city. Under Udayin, Pataliputra became prosperous city which later became world’s largest city under Mauryas. .

End of Haranyaka Dynasty #

Ajatshatru faced the same fate as his father. He was killed by his son Udayin. Kings of the Haranyaka Dynasty were victims of Patricide. Later kings shared the same fate. Udayin was succeeded by Anuruddha by Assassination, his son Munda & his son Nagdasaka also shared the same fate. This dynastic feuding triggered a revolt and the people thrown these Haranyaka Dynasty rule and imposed Shishunaga as ruler. This was the foundation of Shishunaga Dynasty.

Shishunaga Dynasty #

Shishunaga was the founder of this dynasty. He was an amatya / officer / governor of the last Haranyaka ruler Nagdasaka. After this coup d’état, Shishunaga made Grivraja his residence and deputed his son to Banaras. Shishunaga was succeeded by KalAshoka. During KalAshoka, Pataliputra became the capital of Magadha. In Purana, he is mentioned as Kakavarna and in Sri Lankan texts he is men- tioned as KalAshoka.

Kal Ashoka & Second Buddhist Council #

KalAshoka at Vaishali sponsored the second Buddhist Council in 383 BC. A Buddhist monk Yasa, who saw the local monks of Vaishali following the teaching laxily, invited this council. The dispute was on 10 Points such as storing salt in horn, eating after midday, eating once and going to villages for alms, eating sour milk after one’s meal etc. It was not settled and Buddhism sects appeared for the first time. President of this council was Sabakami. The last rulers of Shishunaga Dynasty were 10 sons of KalAshoka who ruled simultaneously. Out of them one son Nandivardhana is mentioned in Puranas.

‘Meaning of Mahapadmananda’ Mahapad- mananda had a large army and that is why he is called Ugrasena. Mahapadmananda subdued all the major powers such as Ikasvakus, Kurus, Panchals,

Kasi, Surasens, Maithilas, kalingas, Asmakas etc. and that is why Puranas mention is name : Sar- vakhstrantaka. (destroyer of all Kshtras) equivalent to Parshurama.

Nanda Dynasty #

Mahapadmananda was the first ruler of the Nanda Dynasty. There are several theories about the birth of Mahapadmananda. The Purana theory say that Mahapadmananda was son of Nandivardhana & a Shudra Woman. Another theory says that there was a good-looking barber, who won the heart of a queen who subsequently killed the king. Thus, Mahapadmananda was a son of this barber. What- ever may be correct but this was the line which started the trend of lowborn (as of contemporary conditions) rule started in Magadha.

The Nandas were the first Non Kshatriya rulers in the history of India. They were also the first Empire Builders in the recorded history of India. Estimates say that the army of Nandas was consist- ing of 200,000 infantry, 20,000 (or 80,000) cavalry,

2,000 (or 8,000) war chariots and 3,000 (or 6,000) war elephants. Nanda ruled almost all parts of India for 100 years. The last ruler was Dhanananda who was over thrown by Chandragupta Maurya thus founding Mauryan Empire in 321 BC.

Invasion of Alexander #

Alexander, the great invaded India in 326 BC, during the rule of Dhanananda. Dhanananda is men- tioned as Xandrames or Aggrammes or Ganderites in the Greek historical texts. These texts mention that crossing the Beas was the last outpost of Alex- ander’s army which was insisted by Alexander to cross Ganga as well. But by hearing that Dhanananda was waiting for them with 200, 000 army they were frightened and revolted and thus Alexander’s army turned back. Alexander began his homeward journey in 325 BC and in 324 BC he died in Persia.

MAURYA EMPIRE #

After Alexander’s invasion, India particularly North West region was in a state of ferment as the people from this region tolerated the blows of the repetitive foreign invasions. On the other side, the Nandas were not popular because of its covetousness and greed leading to financial extortions by Dha-

nananda. These conditions were offering excellent opportunities for somebody to ride the wave of popular discontent to overthrow the unpopular rule. Chandragupta Maurya was that hero, who tried his luck and due to his efforts coupled with his spirit & boldness, India was politically united for the first time.

Chandragupta Maurya #

The Purana account says that Chandragupta was a son of last Nanda Monarch Dhanananda from his Shudra concubine Mura and that is why is name is Maurya. This account has been rejected as well as accepted by many scholars and has been quite controversial.

As per the Mahaparinibbana Sutta, Chandragupta was a scion of Moriya Clan, which was branch of Sakyas Khatriyas. These Kshatriyas had received a share in the relics of Buddha. Some other traditions link his ancestry to peacock tamers. So there is no single theory about the ancestry of Chandragupta. One thing on which all scholars agree is that he was from a “humble” background. He is mentioned in the Greek texts as Sandrokyptos, Sandrokottos and Androcottus.

Chandragupta is said to have served the Nanda Army as a General or Senapati in one of the theories. He instigated by Vishnugupta or Chanakya revolted against his master but his revolt failed. Dhanananda insulted Vishnugupta, a Brahmin by breaching a social etiquette. When the revolt failed, both of them fled to safety.

The Mahavamsa writes that Chandragupta while concealed in a woman’s hut overheard the woman scolding her child, who in the act of eating had burnt his fingers by beginning from the center of the bread. She scolded the child and taught him that hot bread should not be touched from the center and it should be broken in pieces from the corners. Chandragupta learnt from this story and transferred himself to the North West.

Traditional accounts also mention a story, that Vishnugupta was a teacher at the Taxila University. He found one day that Chandragupta was playing with children and he delivered justice among the boys, one of who was acting a criminal. Vishnugupta was impressed by his sense of justice. He took the

boy to the king, who impressed by his intelligence ordered to be trained at Taxila University. Neverthe- less, in the same event the king insulted Chanakya by breaching the etiquette and forced him out. To take revenge Chanakya groomed the young Chan- dragupta at Taxila University. Some scholars say that he met Alexander when he was a young boy.

First of all, Chandragupta liberated North West from the Greek Governors and Satraps who were appointed by Alexander.

Alexander’s death provided Chandragupta an opportunity to give a death blow to the Greek Rule in parts of India. After that he focused his attention on Magadha. Chanakya through diplomacy aligned Chandragupta with a neighbouring king Parvataka and the combined army dethroned the Nandas and seized the Magadha. Nandas were spared their life and let run with as much treasure as much a chariot can carry.

War with Selucus #

After death of Alexander, Seleucus, one of the generals of Alexander, became his successor. He launched a campaign against India in 304 BC to recapture the territories won by Alexander. He crossed Indus but his mission failed and an alliance with Chandragupta ended the mission. By this treaty, Seleucus returned the Arachosia (Kandahar), Paropanisade (Kabul), Aria (Herat) and Gedrsoia (Baluchistan) to Chandragupta. The alliance was cemented by Chandragupta. Following were the acts that cemented the ties:

• Chandragupta gave 500 war elephants to Seleucus.
• Seleucus sent Megasthenes to Chandragupta’s Court.
• Possibly, there was a marital alliance in which son/ daughter of one was married to daughter

/ son of other.

We know about Chandragupta’s empire from the rock edicts and inscriptions of Ashoka and other rulers. The Girnar Rock Inscription gives an indi- cation that his empire was expanded to the borders of modern Gujarat & Saurastra. In south India, we find Ashoka’s inscriptions and edicts, however, there are no evidences that Ashoka or Bindusara

conquered these areas. However, some sources say that Bindusara won the southern areas. Therefore, scholars agree that either Chandragupta or Bindusara conquered the parts of South India.

Later Life of Chandragupta #

In the later years of his life Chandragupta abdicated his throne in favour of his son Bimbis- ara. He became a disciple of Bhadrabahu, a Jain saint. He is believed to have spent his last years at Shravanabelagola. He is believed to have died by practicing Santhara at the Bhadrabahu Cave near Shravanabelagola.

Chanakya #

Vishnugupta, Kautilya are other names of Chanakya. He was born around 350 BC and is known for his being the chief architect of Mauryan Empire and writing the pioneering work in the Eco- nomics and Political Science that is Arthashstra. He is known as Indian Machiavelli in the western world, which is wrong in the sense that Chanakya worked two millenniums earlier than Machiavelli. Chanka was his father’s name and Kotil was his Gotra explaining his two names. Chanakya was identified with Vishnugupta in a verse in his Arthashstra and also in Panchatantra of Gupta age by Vishnu Sharma. Mudrarakshasha of Vishakhadatta mentions that he was Dravid. Pali texts say that he was a Brahmin from Taxila.

Strabo (a Greek Geographer) gives him the name Palibrothus.

In Mudrarakshasa of Vishakhadatta he has been depicted by names Piyadamus, Vrishal, Chandrasiri & Kulihin.

In Mudrarakshasa, Chandragupta has been depicted as a weak insignificant young man and Chanakya being the real ruler.

Historian Sir Thomas R. Trautmann has men- tioned that Chanakya was born with a complete set of teeth, which gave a sign that he would become a King. However, his teeth were broken so he would rule through someone else.

Chanakya mixed poison to the food eaten by Chandragupta Maurya, now king, in order to make him immune. Unaware, Chandragupta feeds some of

his food to his queen, who is in her ninth month of pregnancy. In order to save the heir to the throne, Chânakya cut the queen open and extracts the foetus, who is named Bindusara because he was touched by a drop (bindu) of blood having poison.

Arthashstra #

Kautilya’s Arthashastra was one of the great political books of the ancient world. Max Weber recognized it as “truly radical ‘Machiavellianism”, however it is wrong because Machiavelli’s The Price was published in the 16th century, while Kautilya wrote Arthashstra long before birth of Jesus Christ. Despite of this Arthashstra is little known outside India.

Arthashstra is divided into 15 books:

1. Concerning Discipline.
2. The Duties of Government Superintendents.
3. Concerning Law.
4. The Removal of Thorns.
5. The Conduct of Courtiers.
6. The Source of Sovereign States.
7. The End of the Six-Fold Policy.
8. Concerning Vices and Calamities.
9. The Work of an Invader.
10. Relating to War.
11. The Conduct of Corporations.
12. Concerning a Powerful Enemy.
13. Strategic Means to Capture a Fortress.
14. Secret Means.
15. The Plan of a Treatise.

These 15 books though tagged as theoretical by many scholars, have been accepted as a source to describe the Mauryan Administration.

Bindusara #

His son Bindusara succeeded Chandragupta. His other name is Amitraghata which means destroyer of foes. The Greek scholars write him as “Amitrachates” or “Allitrochates”. Chanakya served as Prime Min- ister of Bindusara for some years. Later, Khallataka became his prime minister. During the initial years of his reign Bindusara subdued a revolt in Taxila

& Avanti. At Avanti, he sent his son Ashoka, the fearsome general and a great warrior right from his childhood to subdue the revolt. Bindusara had good foreign relations. He was friendly with the Greek King Antiochos-I and asked him to send sweet wine, figs and a philosopher. The two things were sent but third “a philosopher” was not sent as the land of the law at Greece did not permit. Deimachos was a Syr- ian ambassador who came in the court of Bindusara. Bindusara ruled for approximately 25-26 years and his succession was disputed which ultimately gave India a great king called Ashoka.

THE REIGN OF ASHOKA #

Ashoka’s Names & Titles: Only inscriptions in the Maski edicts refer his name as Ashoka. Puranas refer his name as Ashokavardhana. Girnar Inscription of Rudradaman mentions him as Ashoka Maurya.” Babhru Inscription he refers himself as Piyadassi, Raja Magadhe (Piyadassi, King of Magadha).He assumes two titles Devanampiya and Piyadassi in his inscriptions. Devanampriya Priyadarsi, Dham- marakhit, Dharmarajika, Dhammarajika, Dham- maradnya, Chakravartin, Samrat, Magadhrajshretha, Magadharajan, Bhupatin, Mauryaraja, Aryashok, Dharmashok, Dhammashok, Asokvadhhan, Ashoka- vardhan, Prajapita,Dhammanayak, Dharmanayak all are his titles.

Ashokavardhana or Ashoka was governor of Taxila and Ujjain during the reign of his father Bindusara. The Sri Lankan texts represent Ashoka as “wading through a pool of Blood” quoting that he terminated all 99 of his brothers except his uterine brother Tisya.

The scholars have disputed this. For example, Rock Edict V of Ashoka mentions about his broth- ers. It may be a falsified version of his bravery by the Buddhist monks who might have been interested in dark background of Ashoka, who became the gentlest king after his conversion.

The Buddhist texts mention his mother’s name as Subhadrangi. His first wife was a princess of Ujjaini called Devi or Vedisa. His two other wives were Karuvaki and Asandhimitra. Ashoka’s only son mentioned in inscriptions is Tivara, who was born to Karuvaki. The name of Karuvaki and Tivara are mentioned in Queen’s edict.

Conquest of Kalinga #

Conquest of Kalinga is mentioned in Inscriptions. Kalinga was modern Orissa. Ashoka’s coronation took place in 269-68 BC and eight years after his coronation he campaigned for Kalinga. Conquest of Kalinga took place in 9th year of Ashoka’s reign. Its worth note that the Mauryan Empire was prob- ably in friendly terms with the southern kings such as Cholas and Pandyas. Kalinga was strategically located in the heart of his territory and that is why his campaign to Kalinga was strategically important. Once Kalinga was won, there was no much need to win over further territories. The Kalinga war was a horrifying event. It mentions that hundred and fifty thousand people were displaced, hundred thousand people were killed and many hundred thousands perished. The vivid description of Kalinga war is given in 13th Rock Edict. After the war of Kalinga Ashoka realized the gravity of war and the event had a profound impact on his mind. He vowed to never wage such war and also directed his sons and grandsons. The 13th Rock edict mentions Ashoka’s remorse after the war and his changed attitude from Dig-vijay to Dhammavijay. Ashoka adopted Buddhism in 9th year of his reign after winning Kalinga. Nigrodha, a boy monk, inspired him. Later, he met Moggaliputta Tissa, who ultimately become his mentor. Later his brother Tissa, queen Karuvaki also adopted Buddhism.

Ashoka and Third Buddhist Council 250 B.C. #

Ashoka sponsored the third Buddhist Council in 250 BC. This council was held at Pataliputra. It was presided by Moggaliputta Tissa. Abhidhamma Pitaka was established in this council.

ASHOKA’S EDICTS & INSCRIPTIONS #

The Edicts of Ashoka are a collection of 33 inscriptions on the Pillars of Ashoka, as well as boulders and cave walls, made by the Emperor Ashoka during his reign from 272 to 231 BC dis- persed throughout the areas of modern-day Pakistan, Nepal and India. The first tangible evidence of Bud- dhism is represented by the rock and pillar edicts of Ashoka detailing wide expansion of Buddhism through the sponsorship of one of the most powerful kings of Indian history. These edicts mention that

Buddhism reached as far as the Mediterranean, and many Buddhist monuments were created in a wide area. Buddhism and the Buddha are mentioned, the edicts focus on social and moral precepts rather than religious practices or the philosophical dimension of Buddhism. In these inscriptions, Ashoka refers to himself as “Beloved of the Gods” and “King Piyadassi.”

Language and Scripts of the Inscriptions #

Three languages have been used viz. Prakrit, Greek and Aramaic. 4 scripts have been used Prakrit inscriptions were written in Brahmi and Kharosthi. Rest written in Greek or Aramaic. The Kandahar Rock Inscription is bilingual. The inscriptions found in Pakistan area are in kharoshthi script. The inscrip- tions found in the eastern part of India were written in the Magadhi language, using the Brahmi script. In the western part of India, the language used is closer to Sanskrit, using the Kharosthi script, one extract of Edict 13 in the Greek language, and one bilingual edict written in Greek and Aramaic. British archeologist and historian James Prinsep decoded these edicts. Major themes are Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism, the description of his efforts to spread Buddhism, his moral and religious precepts, and his social and animal welfare program.

Stone Material for Pillars #

The spotted and white sandstone was sourced from Mathura. Buff colored Sandstone and Quartzite was sourced from Amravati.

Major Rock Edicts #

Major Rock Edict I: Prohibits animal slaughter. Bans festive gatherings and killings of animals. Only two peacocks and one deer were killed in Ashoka’s kitchen. He wished to discontinue this practice of killing two peacocks and one deer as well.

Major Rock Edict II: Provides for care for man and animals, describes about Chola, Pandyas , Satyapura and Keralputra Kingdoms of South India.

Major Rock Edict III: Generosity to Brahmans. Issued after 12 years of Ashoka’s coronation. It says that the Yuktas (subordinate officers and Pradesikas (district Heads) along with Rajukas (Rural officers) shall go to the all areas of kingdom every five years and spread the Dhamma Policy of Ashoka.

Major Rock Edict IV: Dhammaghosa is ideal to the mankind and not the Bherighosa. Impact of Dhamma on society.

Major Rock Edict V: Concerns about the policy towards slaves. He mentions in this rock edict “ Every Human is my child…”Appointment of Dhamma mahamatras is mentioned in this edict.

Major Rock Edict VI: Describes King’s desire to get informed about the conditions of the people constantly. Talks about welfare measures.

Major Rock Edict VII: Requests tolerance for all religions.

Major Rock Edict VIII: Describes Ashoka’s first Dhamma Yatra to Bodhgaya & Bodhi Tree.

Major Rock Edict IX: Condemns popular ceremonies. Stress in ceremonies of Dhamma.

Major Rock Edict X: Condemns the desire for fame and glory. Stresses on popularity of Dhamma.

Major Rock Edict XI: Elaborates Dhamma.

Major Rock Edict XII: Directed and determined request for tolerance among different religious sects.

Major Rock Edict XIII: Ashoka’s victory over Kalinga . Victory of Ashoka’s Dhamma over Greek Kings, Antiochus, Ptolemy, Antigonus, Magas, Alexander and Cholas, Pandyas etc. This is the Largest Edict. It mentions Kamboj, nabhaks, Bhoja, Andhra etc.

Major Rock Edict XIV: Describes engraving of inscriptions in different parts of country.

Separate Edicts #

They were found at sites in Kalinga.

• Separate edict I: Ashoka declared all people are my sons.
• Separate Edict II: proclamation of edicts even to a single person.

Other Edicts #

• Queen Edict : mentions about second queen of Ashoka.
• Barbara cave Inscription: giving away the Barbara cave to Ajivika sect.

●    Kandhar    Bilingual    Rock    Inscription: #

Expresses satisfaction over Ashoka’s policy.

Pillar Edicts #

Ashoka’s 7 pillar edicts have been found at Topra (Delhi), Meerut, Kausambhi, rampurva, Champaran, Mehrauli. Minor pillaredicts have been found at Sanchi, Sarnath, Rummindei, Nigalisagar.

• Pillar Edict I: Ashoka’s principle of protec- tion to people.
• Pillar Edict II: Defines dhamma as minimum of sins, many virtues, compassion, liberality, truthfulness and purity.
• Pillar Edict III: Abolishes sins of harshness, cruelty, anger, pride etc.
• Pilar Edict IV: Deals with duties of Rajukas.
• Pilar Edict V: List of animals and birds which should not be killed on some days and another list of animals which have not to be killed at all occasions. Describes release of 25 prisioners by Ashoka.
• Pilar Edict VI: Dhamma Policy.
• Pilar Edict VII: Works done by Ashoka for Dhamma Policy . He says that all sects desire both self control and purity of mind.

Other Pillars #

Rummindei Pillar Inscription: Ashoka’s visit to Lumbini & exemption of Lumbini from tax.

Nigalisagar Pillar Inscription: It was originally located at Kapilvastu. It mentions that Ashoka increased the height of stupa of Buddha Konakamana to its double size.

Ashoka’s Dharma #

In the Bhabru edict, Ashoka says that he has full faith in Buddha, Sangha and Dhamma. But he never forced his ideal on people. The Pillar Edict II says: Dhamma sadhu, kiyam cu dhamme ti Apasinave, bahu kayane, daya, dane, sace, socaye.

The meaning is: Dhamma is good, but what constitutes Dhamma? (It includes) little evil, much good, kindness, generosity, truthfulness and purity. In his Pillar Edict VII, he says that all sects desire both self control and purity of mind. In the Major Rock Edict XII, he directed and determined request for tolerance among different religious sects. He says that he honors all sects and both laymen

and monks. We can say that Ashoka’s Dhamma is a moral code of ethics. Ashoka propagated his Dhamma with zeal and earnestness of a missioanry. He mentions in Minor Rock Edict I that as a result of his efforts for 1 year (or more) “Human beings who were unmixed were cause to be mixed with Gods throughout Jambudweepa. This was because of his well planned measures such as celestial Chariots (Vimana), luminous balls of Fire (used for showing light in nights) and elephants. Ashoka abandoned the pleasure tours (vihara yatras) and hunting.

Death of Ashoka and Decline of Maurya Empire #

Ashoka died in 232 BC after a reign of 40 years. His policy of ahimsa partially contributed to the decline of Maurya Empire. None of the successors of Ashoka rose to his status. His only son who was named in edicts was Tivara and there is a possibility that he died before his father’s death as not much is heard about him later. Jaluka was one of his sons who is mentioned in Rajtarangini of Kalhana and became independent ruler of Kashmir. Kunala is said to have reigned for 8 years but in southern traditions he is mentioned as a blinded person. Ashokvadana says that Ashoka was compelled to abdicate his throne in favor of his Grandson Samprati who was son of blind Kunala. Samprati was a great patron of Jainism with his seat was at Ujjain. Another grandson Dasaratha is mentioned in Vayupurana & Matsya purana, who has been testified by scholars. It is possible that the empire was partitioned into eastern and western parts, with Dasaratha getting eastern and Samprati getting western parts.

In the last module of history, we studied about various kings of the Mauryan Empire. The strength and influence of Mauryan Empire declined so dra- matically that after Ashoka, 6 rulers of the same dynasty could rule only for 52 years. The last ruler of the Maurya Dynasty was Brihadrath who around 185-184 BC was killed by his own Command- er-in-Chief Pushyamitra Shunga and thus a new “Shung Dynasty” started.

Reason of Decline of Maurya Empire #

There are several reasons of declining of the Mauryan Dynasty. Some of them are as follows:

Immediately after the death of Ashoka, the Mauryan dynasty was partitioned into two parts viz.

east and west. This partition disturbed the unity of the empire.

The successors of Ashoka were weak rulers and they appeared to not been able to handle the highly centralized tradition of domestic policy of the early Mauryas.

Some scholars say that pious policy of Ashoka was responsible to the decline of the empire as it undermined the strength of the empire. Some schol- ars contradict this theory because Ashoka only left policy of annexation but never dissolved or weak- ened his army.

Some scholars say that a Brahminical revolution was a reason of decline, however it is not accepted because Ashoka, though patronized Buddhism, but never forced his religion on others.

Some scholars say that there was a pressure on Mauryan economy, which is evident from the low quality punch marked coins in the later Maurya period. However, this idea is not adopted because foreign accounts give details of a flourished econ- omy.

Some scholars such as Romila Thapar say that, Mauryan administration was highly centralized and only a prudent ruler could handle this machinery.

Some scholars hold the oppressive policy of the later Mauryan for decline of the empire.

Whatever may be the reason, one thing is clear that Maurya Administration was Highly centralized administration.

POLITICAL, SOCIAL AND ECONOM- ICAL LIFE DURING THE MAURYAS #

King was the supreme source of all powers and was center of all authorities, judiciary and admin- istration. The Mauryan Administration was highly centralized and King used to select ministers, high official. A well-planned system of supervision and inspection was there in the Mauryan Administra- tion. The normal administrative machinery was as follows:

Mantriparishada #

The King was assisted by the council of Min- isters or Mantriparishahda. The mantriparishad adhyakshya was head of the Council of Ministers

akin to our Chief Ministers and Prime Minister. Composition of Mantriparishada was as follows:

The Adhyakshas or the Bureaucrates #

The second book of Kautilya Arthashastra (The Duties of Government Superintendents) or Adyak- shaprachara contemplates a ubiquitous bureaucracy, which keeps in touch with all sections of the society. These superintendents were called Adhyakshas. Adhyakshas composed a highly skilled secretariat, divided into several departments. These departments and their superintendents are listed as below:

• Akahalapadhyksha (Accountant General ).
• Sannidhata (Royal Treasury).
• Koshthagara (Treasury Superitendent).
• Akaraadhyaksha (Mines Superitendent)
• Suvarnaadhyaksha (Gold Superitendent).
• Panyaadhksha (Commerce Superitendent).
• Kupyadhyaksha (Forest Officer).
• Lavanadhyaksha (Salt).
• Ayudhgaraadhyaksha (Armoury).
• Tulamanapantava     adhyaksha     or     Pauta- vadhyaskh (Weights and Measurements).
• Sutraadhyaksha (Textiles – spinning and weaving).
• Sitaadhyaksha (Agriculture).
• Suradhyaksha (Excise).
• Navadhyasksha (Shipping and maritime).
• Mudradhyaksha (Government documents).
• Pattanadhyaskha (Ports).
• Lakshanaadhyaskha (Mint).
• Samstha (Trade Routes ).
• Other departments.

The Gudhapurusha or Spies #

There was a well knitted espionage system in the Mauryan administration. The detectives were known as Gudhapurushas. As per the Arthashastra, there were two kinds of spies viz. Sansthana (stationary) and Sanchari (wandering). These spies were ears and eyes of the King, who kept the king informed about all the details of the bureaucracy. The agents

included householders, merchants, disciples, ascet- ics, poisioners, Poisonous girls which were called “Vishkanyas”. The ambassadors who were appointed in the foreign countries were also sort of spies.

The Army #

The overall in charge of the Mauryan army was Commander in chief, who was immediately junior to the King. He was appointed by the king. The army included 6 Lakh infantry, 30,000 cavalry, 9000 war elephants, 1000 chariots and other things such as transport equipments. There was a War Coun- cil, which was further divided into 6 sub-councils each with 5 members which formulated policy for infantry, cavalry, elephant forces, chariots, navy and commiserate. Navy, Transport in forces and commiserate were Mauryan innovations.

Transport #

There was a separate department of road. The width of the cattle tracks, pedestrians, chariots and other traffic were different. There were trunk roads which were managed by the department of Roads. Trees were planted on both sides of the roads. Inns were constructed at places on the road. Nurseries and drinking water facilities such as wells, canals were provided.

The Agriculture #

Sitadhyaksha was the chief of the Agriculture department. There was full-fledged irrigation depart- ment as well. There was a network of canals which provided the water for irrigation as per the meas- urements of the land i.e. requirements. Pushyagupta, who was a provincial governor of Chandragupta Maurya, constructed “Sudarshan Lake” at Girnar in Gujarat. Rice of different verities was grown, Kon- drava was a kind of coarse grain. Wheat, Pulses, Saf- fron, Mustard, Linseed, Sesamum etc. were grown.

The Caste System and slaves #

There was a well-developed “caste” system as per the accounts of Megasthenes. Megasthenes writes that there were 7 castes viz. philosophers (he indicated Brahmins), farmers, soldiers, herdsmen, craftsmen, magistrates and soldiers. So based upon the account we can figure out that the caste system was based upon “occupation” rather than birth. The marriage and polygamy both were present. Polygamy

was confined to Royal classes. Normal people could marry to other women if there was no “son”. The women had their property in the form of Stridhana, which included bridal gift. Women enjoyed high status. The women were appointed as assistances and bodyguards of King. Offenses against women were punishable. There was no slavery in the sense that people used to work as dasa, out of their own compulsions. No Arya including a Shudra could be made dasa forcibly. The 14th book of Arthashastra titiled Secret Means (Aupanisadika) deals with a number of rites and practices.

The Mauryan Art #

The age of Mauryas is known to have contributed to arts significantly. The palace of Chandragupta Maurya at the Pataliputra was mostly made up of wood. The traces of this palace have been found at Kumhrar near Patna. It’s an 80-pillar hall, which speaks of Mauryan Palace art. A large number of Stupas were built in Mauryan Era, many of them by Ashoka. The Buddhist tradition writes that Ashoka built 84000 Stupas. The rock cut caves of Mauryan era are at Barabar hills, located near Gaya and they are oldest surviving Rock Cut caves.The Nagarjuna Hills rock cut caves are of Ashoka and his succes- sors. The barabar caves have been cut of granite and are large halls which provided place for worshippers. The Ashokan Pillars are Monolithic and mostly used Hard sandstone procured from Chunar near Varanasi. They were finely chiseled and highly polished. A. Coomaraswamy has categorizes the Mauryan art into two distinct categories viz. Royal art and popular art.

The Yaksha image from parkam and Yakshini Image from Besnagar are examples of Popular art. While, the pillars are example of Royal art.

Ashoka erected a Pillar to mark the spot in Deer Park Sarnath near Varanasi, where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma and where the Buddhist Sangha was founded. It has four lions standing back to back. The four lions symbolize the Power, Courage, Pride and Confidence and rest on a Circular abacus, which is girded by four animals. These four animals viz. Lion, Elephant, Horse, and Bull are the guardians of four directions viz. North, East, South and West respectively. The Chakra with 24 spokes has been chosen to be placed at the center

of the Indian Flag on 22 July 1947. The Chakra symbolized Dhammachakraparivartan.

Census #

There was a proper system of census, which registered all the details of the deaths and births. Nagarika was the census officer who was respon- sible to keep a ready reference data of the farmers, cattle, traders, cowherds etc. This was to ensure that proper tax is levied.

Public health #

There were proper hospitals and Bheshajas (Doctors) appointed along with a team of midwifes, nurses etc. Treatment was free universally. Food adulteration was a punishable offense which invited a death sentence.

Crimes and Judiciary #

Suppression of crimes, maintenance of peace and protection of the subjects were the chief duties of the King. The antisocial elements were called “Kan- takas”. There were two kinds of courts “civils” and “criminals”. The civils courts were Dharmastheya and the Criminal Courts were “Kantakashodhna”. The idea of Kantakashodhna was to weed out the antisocial elements. The king was the source of Supreme Justice. Death Sentences were common and Ashoka’s edicts detail that he gave additional time to the persons under the Capital punishment to offer donations and repent so that they get a better life in next birth.

Economy: Revenue & Taxes #

There was an advanced concept of “responsi- bility accounting’ which envisaged a preparation of budget and activity planning, reporting on the revenue and expenditure, responsibility for both the revenues and expenditures. The “full treasury” was guarantee to the prosperity of state says Arthashastra. Treasury received revenues from farms, mines, for- ests, pasture lands etc. Tributes were received when a prince was born. Chief source for revenue was “land tax”. It was 1/6th to 1/4th of the total produce and it was collected by the revenue officers. The more productive lands and irrigated lands invited more tax. All craftsmen (except royal) and traders paid taxes. Taxes were of two kinds viz. Bali &

Bhaga. The Bali was religious tribute. Bhaga was the part of the produce. Ashoka edict says that Lumbini was exempted from Bali and Bhaga was reduced to 1/8th parts of the reduce. Bhaga, which was 1/6th of the produce, was called shadbhaga (6th part) or Rajbhaga (state part). Maintenance of the Royal palaces, members, ministers and public welfare were the main avenues to use the revenue.

Foreign Trade #

Foreign Trade by means of the land and sea was prevalent, and it was regulated by passports kinds of documents. Indigo, cotton and silk was most traded property. Antiochus I with his joint rule with Selucus issued coins of Indian standard rather than the Attic Standard. This shows that the Mauryan Economy was world’s largest economy and the currency of Mauryas was accepted Worldwide and was the main currency of those time. The trade routes were called Vanikpatha.

Provincial Administration #

The Maurya empire was divided into 5 provinces (probably). They were as follows:

The Northern Province: Uttarpatha was having its capital at Taxila and some mandals were Shakal, Kandhar and Saurastra.

The Southern province Dakshinpatha’s capital was Suvarngiri. The eastern Prachyapatha was having its capital at Toshali near Kalinga. Magadha was the Central province & Capital of the entire kingdom.

The provinces were administered by either a prince or a member of the royal family which was the viceroy of the king.

District Administration:

Each district was administered by three officers’ viz. Pradeshika, Rajuka, & Yukta.

Pradesika was senior and Rajuka was subordi- nate. Yukta was subordinate to both of them.

It was duty of the Pradesika to tour the kingdom every five year and collect details of the administration.

Village Administration #

Village was the smallest unit of polity and it was called Grama. The head of the grama was a

Gramika. The Gramika was not a paid employee of the government but was elected by the village people. The 10 villages were collectively headed by a Gopa and 100 villages were collectively headed by a Sthanaka. Gramika in Open Panchayats solved most disputes.

Important Observations #

The Insignificance of Coins #

About the Mauryan Empire, we know from the literary sources, Epigraphic Sources and Foreign Accounts but the Numismatic Sources are least sig- nificant because the coins were punch marked and not beard much details. The coins became a major source of historic information only much later after Mauryas.

The Maski Edict revealed name of Ashoka #

Maski is a site near Tungabhadra river in Karna- taka’s Raichur District. In 1915, a minor rock edict of Emperor Ashoka (Maski Edict) was discovered by C. Beadon. This edict had the name of King Ashoka. Prior to this edict, all edicts had the name of Devanampiye piyadasi and after the discovery of this edict, the real name of Ashoka was concluded and it was also concluded that all the edicts found in the Indian Sub Continent were of Ashoka.

The lake constructed by Mauryas #

Junagarh Rock Inscription was Not Issued by Ashoka but was issued by Rudradaman I. This edict is in Sanskrit. This inscription mentions that Girnar lake was constructed by the Mauryas and he repaired some parts of this lake. It was a dam built by Mauryas to check floods.

The shelters of Ajivika sect. #

The Barbara caves and Nagarjuna caves were mainly for the purpose of the Ajivikas Sects.

The Later Mauryas #

Magadha Empire under Ashoka was extended from the foot of the Hindu Kush to the borders of the Tamil country. After the Kalinga war, Ashoka became a monk and expansion of Buddhism in other countries took place during his time. None of the later Mauryas was efficient to keep such a vast empire intact. The sources of history after

Mauryas are scant. There was no account left by Kautilya and Megasthenes about the later Mauryas. Our knowledge about the later Mauryas is based upon Puranas, Jain and Buddhism texts. Different Puranas give different accounts of Ashoka’s succes- sors. The account given by Vayu Purana says that Kunala succeeded Ashoka while the Matsya Purana says that Suyasas succeeded Ashoka. Nevertheless, all Purana accounts as well as Harshacharita of Banabhatta says- that the last Mauryan ruler was Brihadratha. Brihadratha was a weak ruler and his Senapati Pushymitra Shunga while a parading the entire Mauryan army before Brihadratha to show him the strength of the army assassinated him and this was the end of the Mauryas.

THE SHUNGAS, KANVAS AND MAHAMEGHAVANAS #

Shunga Dynasty #

Pushyamitra Shunga founded the Shunga dynasty in around 185-183 BC. Capital of Shunga Dynasty Was Pataliputra and its major centers were Ujjain, Mathura, Saket, Sanchi, and Kapilvastu. Vidisha was capital of later Shunga rulers. West Bengal and parts of Bangladesh, some parts of northern Orissa, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. In South India, the contemporary of Mauryas & Shungas were Saatvahanas, Pandyas, Cheras and Cholas.The extent of Saatvahana was modern Andhra Pradesh.

Pandyas was Tamil Nadu and Karnataka and Cheras was Kerala (Cheras derived from Keralaputra).

Pushyamitra Sunga (185 BC TO 151 BC) #

Pushyamitra Shunga was the founder of the Shunga dynasty.He was viceroy of the Mauryas at Ujjain and was a real war hero. He was not happy with his king Brihadratha, who failed in containing the Yavanas and attacks from the western sides. He is credited to repulse the two attacks of Greeks and also conquest over Vidarbha. The first of these attacks from Greeks, which were repulsed by Pushyamitra Shunga, was under Demetrius and another was under Meander. Pushyamitra is also known to have repelled the Kalinga’s king Khar- vela conquest. Some evidences say that Pushyamitra Shunga destroyed many stupas of Ashoka. However, there are also evidences that Barhut Stupa was built

during the Shunga Empire only. His son Agnimitra succeeded Pushyamitra.

Agnimitra and later Shungas #

Agnimitra was the second king of Shunga dynasty, who succeeded his father Pushyamitra Shunga. He had a short reign of 8 years.He is the hero of Malvikagnimitram of Kalidasa in which he has been referred to as Raja. By the times of Agnimitra, Vidarbha had become independent of the Maurays. Agnimitra was succeeded by Vasumitra around 131 BC.Who succeeded Vasumitra , not much details are available. Different accounts men- tion the name of different kings such as Andhraka, Pulindaka, Ghosha or Vajramitra. The last rulers of Sung dynasty were Bhagabhadra and Devabhuti, about whom we have some details.

Bhagabhadra (114 BC-83 BC) #

We know about the king Bhagabhadra by a Heliodorus pillar, which was found in Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh near modern Besnagar.Heliodorus was a Greek ambassador and he dedicated this pillar to God Vasudeva (Vishnu).The Heliodorus pillar has a surmounted figure of a Garuda.

Devabhuti (87-73 BC) #

Devabhuti was the last Shunga Ruler who was killed by his own minister Vasudeva Kanva in around 73 BC who founded the Kanva Dynasty.

Kanva dynasty #

The Kanvas were Brahmins and considered themselves as descendents from Rishi Kanva. At the time of Vasudeva Kanva’s accession, the Shunga kingdom was already finished as the Punjab region was under the Greeks and most parts of the Gangetic planes was under different rulers. One of the Shunga rulers named Sumitra, who rules around 133 BC, was killed by Muladeva. Muladeva founded the independent Kosala Kingdom. Bhumimitra suc- ceeded Vasudeva. Bhumimitra after reigning for 14 years was succeeded by his son Narayana, who was succeeded by Susharman. Much detail about these kings has been ascertained only based on Numismatics. Only these four kings of the Kanva dynasty are known. This dynasty is said to have been overthrown by the Satavahana dynasty.

Mahameghavahans of Kalinga #

After the decline of Mauryas, Kalinga rose to power around 1st century BC in the area of modern Odisha. We best know about the Third ruler of this dynasty, named ‘’ Kharvela’’. Kharvela is known to have revived the past glory of Kalinga.

Kharvela (209-170 BC) #

King Kharvela belonged to the epic time Chedi dynasty.

His capital was Kalinganagara.

We know about Kharvela from Hathigumpha inscription, found in a cave in Udayagiri near Bhu- baneswar. Kharvela reinstated the army and military of Kalinga. Kharvela led successful campaigns against the kingdoms of Magadha, Anga, and Sat- avahana. The Kalinga Kingdom was expanded till Ganga to Kaveri from north to south by Kharvela. Kharvela was a Jain follower, but despite being a Jain follower he never hesitated in warfare. He patronized the Jaina ascetics by making provision for their maintenance, constructing the house/dwellings.

Hathigumpha inscription #

Hathigumpha inscription of Kharvela is a 17

lines inscription in Brahmi found at Udayagiri hills, Orissa. It 6 miles away from the place where Dhauli edit of Ashoka was located. The inscription says that it is dated 165th year of Maurya kings and 13th year Kharvela reign, and gives a biographical sketch of the king. It says.

• In the first year the king rebuilt the capital of Kalinga.
• In the second year, he destroyed the capital of Musikas, a tribe of Hindus of Indus river area.
• In 4th year he subdued the Rastrakas and Bhijakas, the tribes near modern berar area.
• In the 5th year he extended a canal built by the Mauryas.
• In the 8th year, he advanced till Barabar hills and defeated the king of Rajgriha.
• In the 9th year he built the ‘’Mahavi- jayaprasad’’ place of great on both the banks of the river Pranchi.
• In the 12th year he subdued the Brihaspatim- itra of Magadha.
• He built magnificent temple at Bhubneshwar.