The Mauryan Period

The Mauryan Empire (321–185 B.C.) was the first great empire in Indian history, bringing political unity to most of the subcontinent. Founded by Chandragupta Maurya with the guidance of Chanakya (Kautilya), it reached its greatest extent under Ashoka. The Mauryan period is remembered for its strong administration, promotion of dhamma, and remarkable achievements in art and architecture.

Sources

• Arthashastra by Kautilya (Chanakya): a treatise on statecraft, economy, and administration.

• Indica by Megasthenes, the Greek ambassador at Chandragupta’s court.

• Ashokan edicts inscribed on rocks and pillars, providing valuable information on his policies and dhamma.

• Buddhist and Jain texts like the Divyavadana and Jain traditions.

Chandragupta Maurya (321–297 B.C.)

• Founded the Mauryan Empire after overthrowing Dhanananda with the help of Chanakya.

• Defeated Seleucus Nikator (Alexander’s general) and signed a treaty giving him territories in return for 500 elephants.

• Capital: Pataliputra.

• Maintained a vast standing army and strong central administration.

• Towards the end of his life, he embraced Jainism and died at Shravanabelagola in Karnataka.

Ashoka (273–232 B.C.)

• The greatest Mauryan ruler, remembered as Ashoka the Great.

• Expanded the empire, but after the Kalinga War (261 B.C.), he renounced violence.

• Adopted Buddhism and dedicated his life to spreading dhamma (righteousness).

• Sent missionaries to Sri Lanka, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia to spread Buddhism.

• Known as Devanampriya (Beloved of the Gods) and Priyadarshi (He who looks with affection).

Mauryan Administration

• Highly centralized with the king as supreme authority.

• The empire divided into provinces ruled by princes or governors.

• Maintained a spy system to check administration.

• Revenue administration: land revenue was the main source of income.

• Large standing army maintained.

• Public works: roads, irrigation, rest houses, and hospitals were built.

Ashoka’s Dhamma

• Not a new religion, but a code of moral and ethical conduct.

• Main principles: respect for elders, kindness to animals, tolerance towards all sects, and non-violence.

• Emphasis on truth, charity, purity, and compassion.

• Rock edicts and pillar edicts spread dhamma across the empire.

• Promoted religious tolerance and harmony.

Development of Art and Architecture

• Mauryan period marked the beginning of stone architecture in India.

• Ashokan pillars: monolithic, polished stone pillars with animal capitals (e.g., Lion Capital of Sarnath – now India’s National Emblem).

• Stupas: enlarged at Sanchi, Sarnath, Bharhut.

• Rock-cut caves: Lomas Rishi cave (for Ajivikas).

• Palace at Pataliputra: influenced by Persian style.

Decline of the Mauryas

• After Ashoka’s death, weak rulers followed (e.g., Dasharatha).

• The vast empire became difficult to govern.

• Financial strain due to maintenance of army and officials.

• Invasions and revolts weakened the state.

• The last ruler, Brihadratha, was assassinated by his general Pushyamitra Shunga (founder of the Shunga dynasty) in 185 B.C.

Key Takeaway

• The Mauryan Empire was the first empire to unify most of India under one administration.

• Chandragupta laid strong foundations, while Ashoka gave the empire a moral and spiritual dimension.

• The Mauryas contributed greatly to administration, religion, art, and architecture, leaving a legacy that shaped Indian history.