Understanding the Mauryan King Who Renounced War

The question asks to identify the Mauryan king known for abandoning warfare after a significant battle. This relates to a pivotal moment in ancient Indian history, specifically within the Mauryan Empire.

The Impact of the Battle of Kalinga

The Battle of Kalinga was a major conflict fought during the reign of a prominent Mauryan emperor. This battle is renowned not just for its scale and brutality but for its profound impact on the victorious king. The immense suffering and loss of life witnessed during this war led to a fundamental change in the king's philosophy and approach to governance.

Identifying the King: Ashoka and His Transformation

Historical sources, particularly Ashoka's own rock and pillar edicts, clearly indicate that Emperor Ashoka was deeply moved by the devastation caused by the Kalinga War (fought around 261 BCE). Unlike other rulers who might celebrate such a victory, Ashoka was filled with remorse and regret upon seeing the widespread death, injury, and displacement. This experience marked a turning point in his life.

Following the Battle of Kalinga, Ashoka decided to renounce violent conquest (Digvijaya) and instead adopted a policy of conquest by righteousness or Dhamma-vijaya. He dedicated the rest of his life to promoting Dhamma, which included principles like non-violence, tolerance, welfare, and respect for all beings. He propagated these principles through his famous edicts spread across his vast empire.

Analyzing the Other Options

Let's consider why the other options are not the correct answer in this context:

• Chandragupta Maurya: He was the founder of the Mauryan Empire and Ashoka's grandfather. While a great conqueror, his reign predates the Kalinga War fought by Ashoka. There is no historical evidence suggesting he renounced war after a specific battle like Kalinga.
• Mahinda: Mahinda was Ashoka's son (or brother, depending on the source) who played a crucial role in spreading Buddhism to Sri Lanka. He was not a ruling Mauryan king involved in fighting the Kalinga War.
• Bindusara: He was Ashoka's father and the second Mauryan emperor. While he expanded the empire, the Kalinga region remained unconquered during his reign. The conquest of Kalinga was undertaken by Ashoka early in his rule. Bindusara did not renounce war after the Kalinga conflict, as it occurred after his time.

Therefore, it is historically well-established that Emperor Ashoka is the Mauryan king who was so profoundly affected by the Battle of Kalinga that he gave up warfare and dedicated himself to the path of Dhamma.

Summary of the Answer

The king among the given options who gave up war after the Battle of Kalinga is Ashoka. His transformation after witnessing the horrors of this war is a significant event in history, leading him to promote peace and righteousness instead of military conquest.

Revision Table: Key Mauryan Kings and Kalinga War

Additional Information on Ashoka and Dhamma

Ashoka's decision to renounce war and embrace Dhamma had long-lasting effects. He inscribed his policies and principles on rock and pillar edicts placed throughout his empire. These edicts provide invaluable insights into his reign, his thoughts after the Kalinga War, and the ethical and social principles he wished his subjects to follow. Dhamma was not a specific religion but a code of conduct emphasizing compassion, truthfulness, purity, and non-violence. Ashoka also sent missionaries, including his son/brother Mahinda, to spread Buddhism, although Dhamma itself was broader than just Buddhism.