Kalinga War(261 BCE): an Impact on Ashoka’s Administration
The ruler of Kalinga lost the battle against Ashoka. But Ashoka also lost his previous brutal mindset while winning the war. Ashoka’s cruel approach towards people made him Chandashoka. His prison was like hell on the earth. Kalinga War reflects his ruthless approach to conquering new domains. But according to the 13th major rock edict, Ashoka became remorseful about his cruelty in the Kalinga war. The countless deaths due to the war transformed him into a messenger of peace or Dhammashoka. His administrative policy changed when he accepted the new path of Dhamma or Dharma. This attribute of Ashoka contributed to foreign policy also. Buddhist philosophy’s influence, Dhamma, elevated his era to a different level in Mauryan history.
Ashoka Foreign Relations
Ashoka, the Mauryan Emperor, and successor of Bindusara, was famous for his diplomatic yet peaceful foreign relations. He was one of the most important emperors of the Mauryan dynasty. His ruling period was controversial. According to some sources, it is c. 265–238 BCE, whereas according to other sources, it is c. 273–232 BCE. Ashoka’s foreign policy had exemplary attributes. It was the best way to expand the ideology of his Dhamma. The history shows his connections with various powerful neighbour empires. Ashoka established connections with South Asia and Western countries during his ruling period. The geographical location of Ashoka’s domain helped to develop new foreign relations too. He was an ideal example of nonviolent political diplomacy. The monk-like philosophy of Dhammashoka or Dharmashoka showed the world the importance of kindness and generosity in building foreign relations. Here we will discuss the main facts and features of Ashoka’s foreign relations.
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