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Draft:Ashoka: The pillar of Buddhism

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Ashoka: The Pillar of Buddhism is a biographical and historical analysis of Ashoka, a prominent emperor of the Maurya Dynasty who ruled much of the Indian subcontinent in the 3rd century BCE. Ashoka is widely recognized for his role in the proliferation of Buddhism following the Kalinga War, a conflict that prompted his transformation from a military ruler to an advocate of non-violence. Inscriptions on various pillars and rocks throughout his empire, known as the Edicts of Ashoka, reflect his adherence to the principles of Dhamma, a concept rooted in ethical governance and social welfare.

This book examines Ashoka’s policies, which emphasized compassion, respect for all living beings, and public welfare, offering insight into how these tenets influenced statecraft and social norms in ancient India. Ashoka: The Pillar of Buddhism explores his contributions to Buddhist thought, as well as the enduring cultural and historical significance of the architectural sites, such as stupas and pillars, associated with his reign. The book relies on a range of archaeological evidence, inscriptions, and historical sources to contextualize Ashoka’s influence on governance, religion, and cultural developments in South Asia.