pre mauryan

8/12/2019 Pre Mauryan

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PRE MAURYAN AGE

Age of BuddhaThe archeological sources of this period consist of punch mark coins, North Black Polish Ware (NBPWpottery. The indigenous literary sources of this period consist of Brahamanic literature, Buddhist literatuand Jaina literature. The foreign literarysources of this period consist of Historica by Herodotous etc.

Concepts about age of Buddha1. A clear cut demarcation between the place of work and living dwellingtook place during

this period.2. Dowrysystemcame into existence for the first time3. Village became the lowest unit of administration (this has continued till the present day)4. Scripts and laws came into existence for the first time5. The tradition of royal documentstarted during this period6. The caste laws replaced the tribal laws7. The standing armywas formed for the first time during this period8. Slaveswere given work in the agriculturefor the first time. Prior to this period slaves were

employed only in the household tasks9. Use of iron implements for agriculturestarted for the time, prior to this iron was used onlyin

weapons10.Taxation system became more elaborate, about six officers were associated with the collection o

taxes11.The evidence of untouchabilty comes from the Buddhist literature belonging to this period

The sixteen Mahajanpadas

Following is the Brief Description of the 16 Mahajanpadas:

Kasi: Its Capital was BanarasKasi was located on the confluence of Ganga and Gomti rivers and somewhere around today's Varanasi.

Kosala: Its capital was ShravastiKosala was located in the Eastern Uttar Pradesh. It covers today's districts Faizabad, Gonda, Bhahraich etc. and w

bordered by River Gomti on the west, River Sadaniva in the east, Nepal hills in the north and River Syandika in theSouth.

Anga: Its Capital was ChampaIt covered the modern districts of Munger and Bhagalpur inBihar It was later annexed to Magadha by Bimbisar.

Magadh was on its west and Raja Mahal hills on the west.
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Magadha: Its capital of Girivraja or Rajgriha

It covered the modern districts of Patna, Gaya, Shahabad of Bihar. It was bordered by River Son non North andGanga on South.

Vajji or Vriji: Its capital was VaishaliIt was located on the north of River Ganga in Bihar. The seat of 8 smaller clans / kingdoms called "Athakula"out

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

Malla: Its Capital was Kushinagar, PawaIt 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 riveBetwa or Vetravati. Its capital was Suktimati or Sotthivati located somewhere near Banda in Uttar Pradesh.

Vatsa: Its capital was KausambiIt covered the modern districts of Allahabad and Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh.

Kuru:Its Capital was Indraprastha / Hastinapur / Isukara

It covered the modern Haryana &Delhi-Meerut-Ghaziabad region. Its eastern border was River Yamuna.

Panchala: Its Capital was Its capital were Ahichhtra (Western Panchal) and Kampilya (easternPanchala).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: Its capital was Potali, Potana or PodanaLocated on the banks of the Godavari River. Its capital was Potali, Potana or Podana, which now lies in the NanduTehsil, Buldana district in the Indian state of Maharashtra and it was the only Mahajanapada situated to the south

the Vindhya Range, and was in Dakshinapatha

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

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

Kamboja: Its capital RajpurIt was located around Punchh area of Kashmir.

Only Malla and Vajji were republics while others were monarchies. Kamboja turned to be arepublic at the time of Kautilya.

The ascendency of MagdhaThe kingdoms of Magadha, Kosala, Vatsa and Avantiwere in constant struggle with eachother for supremacy. It was the kingdom of Magadha that emerged to be the most powerfuland succeeded in founding a large empire.
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Causes of Magadhas success

1. The vast resources of ironin Magdha gave her a strategic edge over the others.2. The geographical conditions like fertile alluvial soilhelped her to generate agrarian surplu

which contributed in its success3. It was Magadha which first used elephantson a large scale in its war against its neighbor4. The location of major forts provided the kingdom with natural shields against the enemies5. The monarchs ruling the kingdom like Ajatshatru, Udayin, Kalashoka etc were highly ambitioand indulged into the territorial expansion

Maghdhan SupremacyThe important dynasties that ruled Magdha were:Haryanka Sisunaga Nanda Maurya

Haryanaka dynasty: (544 to 412 B.C)

Bimbisara (544 BC492 BC)1) He was the founderof Haryanka dynasty.2) He annexedAnga3) He formed the first standing army hence also called Shrenik Bimbasar4) Magadha came into prominence under the leadership of Bimbisara.5) He was a contemporary of Gautama Buddha.6) He married the princesses of Kosala (Kosaldevi / Mahakosala-sister of Kosal King Prasenjit)

Lichchhavi (Chellana-sister of Lichchhavi Head Chetaka) & Madra (Khema-daughter of Madraking), which helped him in his expansionist policy.

7) He sent a royal physician, Jivakato Ujjain, when Avanti King Pradyotawas attacked byjaundice.

8) He gained a part of Kashi as the dowry in his marriage with the sister of king Prasenjit of Kosala(first evidence of dowary)

9) He built the city of New Rajagriha.Ajatashatru (Kunika) (492460 BC)

1) Bimbisara was succeeded by his son Ajatashatru. Ajatashatru killed his father and seized thethrone.

2) He was son of Lichichhivi princessChellana3) He annexed Kashiby attacking his maternal uncle Prasenjit, the king of Kosala.4) TheVajji confederationwas Ajatashatrus next target of attack. This war was alengthy one a

tradition tells us that after a long period of 16 years, he was able to defeat the Vajji only througdeceit, by sowing the seeds of discord amongst them.

5) These three factors that played important role to defeat the Vajji were:a. Sunidha &VatsakarAjashatrus diplomatic minister, whosowed the seeds of discord

amongst Vajjis.

b. RathamusalaA king of chariot to which a macewas attached.c. MahashilakantakaA war engine which catapulted big stones.

6) He built the fort of Rajagrihaand a watch-fort (Jaladurga) at a village called Patali,on the banks of the Ganges.

Udayin (460440) B.C1)According to Puranas the nearest successor of Ajatshatru was Darshaka.2) He laid the foundations of the city of Patliputraat the confluence of the Son and the Gangesand shifted the capital from Rajagriha to Patliputra.3) Nagadasakwas the last ruler of the Hiranayak dynasty who was replaced by Sisunaga, thegovernor of Varanasi.


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Shisunaga Dynasty (412to 344 B.C.)1) Nag-Dasak was replaced by his own people and Sisunaga was elected as king.2) The most important achievement of Shisunaga was the destruction of the Pradyota dynasty ofAvanti.3) Shisunaga was succeeded by Kalashoka(Kakavarna). His reign is important because heconvened the Second Buddhists Council in Vaishali(383 BC).

Nanda dynasty (344 to 323 B.C)1) The Shisunaga dynasty was overthrown by Mahapadmawho established a new line of kings

known as the Nandas.2) According to Puranashe was son of Sudra3) Mahapadma is known as Sarvakshatrantaki.e. Uprooter of all the Kshatriyas (Puranas) and

Ugrasenai.e. owner of huge army(Pali exts)4) The Puranas call Mahapadma as Ekrati.e. the sole monarch. He seems to have overthrown all t

dynasties which ruled at the time of Shisunagas5) He is often described as the first empire builder of Indian history.6) Mahapadma was succeeded by his eight sons.7) Dhananandawas the last ruler of the Nanda dynasty8) He conquered Kalinga9) The last king Dhanananda is possibly identical with theAgrammes or Xandramesof the Gree

texts10)It was during the rule of Dhanananda that the invasion of Alexandertook place in north-west

India in 326 BC

Religious movements (6th Century B.C)The sixth century B.C. was the age of religious unrest in the history of India. This was thetime when Vedic religion and philosophy witnessed churnings and reactions from within andwithout. The churning from within the Vedic religion was in the form of Upnishads which gavea serious jolt to the cult of sacrifices; and gave emphasis on the knowledge as a vehicle to

achieve God. On the other hand Jainism, Buddhism and various other heterodox sectsemerged during this period as a reaction to the Vedic religion and philosophy.While the Upnishads philosophy was aimed to rectify the Vedic religion and thus strengthenit, the aim of Jainism, Buddhism and various other heterodox sects was to dismantle it.

Causes of Religious Movements1. The religious movements were a reaction against the Vedic philosophy which had quagmire into

stiff dogmas, superstitions and rituals.2. Supremacy of the Brahmans created unrest in the society and Kshatriyas reacted against the

Brahmanical domination. It is not just a coincidence that both Buddha and Mahavira were fromruling clans.

3. Introduction of a new agricultural economy in Eastern India using iron implements resulted inavailability of agrarian surplus and this gave the leisure time to people to indulge into philosophidiscourses.

4. The economic status of Vaishayas improved but this did not result into the improvement in theirsocial status. Thus they started patronizing the sects outside Vedic religion which could enhancetheir social status as well.

5. The Vedic religion gave much importance to the cult of sacrifice which involved killing of animalsBysixth century B.C. with agriculture becoming the mainstay of the economy, the animals like oxand other cattle became important assets in the means of production. Thus it is not just acoincidence that Buddhism and Jainism gave emphasis on non violence.


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BUDDHISM Gautama Buddha, founder of Buddhismm was born, was born in 563 BC at Lumbinivana in

Kapilvastu in the Sakya Kshatriya clan. His father Suddodhana was the king of Kapilvastu and mother Mahamaya was a princess of Kos

dynasty.

Mahaprajapati Gautami was the step mother of Gautama. He was married to Yasodhara (Princess of Kolli dynasty) from whom he had a son Rahul. At the age of 29, he renounced home this was his Mahabhinishkramana (great going forth) andbecame a wandering ascetic. His first teacher was Alara Kalama. Another teacher was Udraka Ramputra. At the age of 35 under a pepal tree at Uruvella ( Bodh Gaya) on the bank of river Niranjana

(modern name Falgu) attained Nirvana (enlightern-ment)after 49 days of continuous meditation Buddha delivered his first sermon at Sarnath (Dear park) to his five deciples, this is known as

Dharmachakra Pravartana (Turning of the wheel of law)

Ananda and Upali were his famous disciples. Sujata was the farmers daughter who gave him rice milk at Bodha Gaya He died at the age of 80 in 483 BC at Kushinagar. This is known as Mahaparinirvana Eight great places associated with Buddhism are Lumbini, Sarnath, Sravasti, Rajgriha, Bodh Gay

Kushinagar, Sankisa and Vaishali. Patliputra is not associated with Buddha

Ashoka, the greatest patron of Buddhism, called 3rd Buddhist council & sent mission comprises his son Mahendra & his daughter Sanghamitra to Sri Lanka.

Palas of Bengal & Bihar were last great patrons of BuddhismEvents associated with Buddhas lifeGreat Events of Buddhas Life Symbols

1. Janma (Birth) Lotus2. Mahabhnishkramana (Renunciation) Horse3. Nirvana (Enlightenment) Bodhi tree4. Drarmachakra pravartana (First Sermon) Wheel5. Mahaparinirvana (Death) Stupa

Buddhist Architecture1. StupaRelices of the Buddha or some prominent Buddhist monks are preserved.2. ChaityaPrayer hall3. ViharaResidence of monks and ascetics

Doctrine of BuddhismFour Noble Truths1. This world is full of sufferings2. Desire is the root cause of sufferings3. The cessation of sufferings is attainable4. The cessation of sufferings can be attained byfollowing the Eight Fold Path

According to Buddhist philosophy the ultimate aim of life is to attain nirvana, the eternal state of peaceand bliss, which means liberation from the cycle of birth and death

According to Buddhist philosophy the world is momentaryThe interesting fact about Buddhist philosophyis that while it believein cycle of birth and death it does nbelieve in the concept of soul

The Middle Path of Buddhism states that man should avoid bothextremesTriratnai.e. Three Jewels of Buddhism are

1. Buddha2. Dharma3. Sangha


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Buddhist literatureMilindapanho(i.e. Questions of Milinda): A dialogue between Milinda (identical with IndoGreek rulerMenander) and Buddhist saint Nagasena is the onlytext in Sanskrit.Pali Texts

1. Tripitaka: Pitaka literally means basket and it was called so, because the original texts werewritten on palm-leaves and kept in baskets. Tripatika refers to three commentaries, these are asa) Sutta PitakaIt contain the sayings of Buddha. It contains the five groups

Dighgha Nikaya Majhim Nikaya Sanyukta Nikaya Anguttar Nikaya Kshudraka Nikaya

b) Vinay PitakaIt contain the monastic code, the most important is Patimokshac) Abhidamma PitakaIt consists of the religious and metaphysical discourses of Buddha

2. Dipavamsha & MahavamshaThe great chronicles of Sri Lanka3. Visshudhimaggaby Buddhagosha

Buddhist councilsFirst CouncilThe first Buddhist council was held at Rajgriha in 483 B.C. under the patronage of Ajatshatru.

It took place just after the death of Lord Buddha. The compilation of Sutta Pitak and VinayPitak took place during this council.Second CouncilIt took place after 100 years of the death of Lord Buddha i.e. 383 in B.C. It took place in

Vaishali under the patronage of king Kalashoka, it was presided by Sabakami. The schismtook place in this council on the issue of rules and discipline. As a result two groups,Mahasanghika and Therivadi (Sthavirvadin) were formed.Third CouncilIt took place in Patliputra under the patronage of Ashoka. It was presided by Mogliputta Tisa.It is also known as the council of Therivadins. Katthavattu was added to the AbhidhamaPatika during this council.

However, none of the Ashokan inscription gives us the information about the council.Fourth CouncilIt was held in Kundalgrama in Kashmir. The president of the council was Vasumitra and thevice president was Ashvagosha. Mahavibhasha, the doctrine of Sravastivadin was written inSanskrit in copper plate and enclosed in the stone boxes.During this council the two sects of Buddhism i.e. Hinayana and Mahayana were formedofficially.Sects of BuddhismThe three sects of Buddhism are Hinayana, Mahayana and VajrayanHinayana(i)Its followers believed in the original teaching of Buddha.(ii)Theysought individual salvation through self-discipline and meditation.

(iii)Followers of this do not believe in idol-worship and historicity of Buddha.(iv)This sect treat Lord Buddha as a teacher and not as God4/12/13 Religious Movementswww.halfmantr.com/display-polity/584-religious-movements 6/11(v)The literature of this sect is mainlyin Pali.(vi)It is known as Southern Buddhist Religion, because it prevailed in the South ofIndia, e.g. Sri Lanka, Burma (Myanmar), Syam (Thailand), Java etc.(vii)There were two sub sects of Hinayana i.e. Vaibhasika and Sautantrika.Mahayana(i)Its followers believed in the historicity of Buddha.(ii)They sought the salvation of all through the grace and help of Buddha &Bodhisatva


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(iii)This sect believes in idol-worship.(iv)This sect treat Buddha as God(v)The literature of this sect is compiled in Sanskrit language.(vi)It is known as Northern Buddhist Religion, because it prevailed in the North ofIndia, e.g. China, Korea, Japan, etc.(vii)There were two sub sects of Mahayana1. Madhyamika or Shunyavada: Founded by Nagarjuna

2. Yogachar or Vijananavada: Founded by Maitreyanath and his discipleAsanga.Vajrayana(i)Its followers believed that salvation could be best attained by acquiring themagical power i.e. Vajra.(ii)The sect developed in Tibet(iii)The sect believe in worship of female deities(iv)The chief divinities of this new sect were the Taras.(v)It became popular in Eastern India, particularly Bengal and Bihar.JainismFacts related to Mahaviras life:Mahavira was born in 540 BC in a village Kundgrama near Vaishali in Bihar.

His father Siddhartha was the head of the Jnathrika Kshtriya clan under Vajji ofVaishali and his mother Trishala was the sister of Chetaka, the king of Vaishali.4/12/13 ReligiousMovementswww.halfmantr.com/display-polity/584-religious-movements 7/11Mahavira was also related to Bimbisara, the ruler of Magadha, who had marriedChellana, the daughter of Chetaka.Mahavira was married to Yashoda and their daughter was Anonja Priyadarshiniwhose husband Jamali, became the first disciple of Mahavira.At the age of 30, after the death of his parents, he renounced his family, became anascetic and proceeded in search of truth.He was accompanied by Makkhali Gosala, but later due to some differences Gosala

left him and founded Ajivika sect.At the age of 42, under a sal tree at Jimbhikagrama on the bank of river Rijupalika,Mahavira attained Kaivalya.From then he was called Kevalin (perfect learned), Jina or Jitendriya (one whoconquered his senses), Nrigrantha (free from all bonds), Arhant (blessed one) andMahavira (the brave) and his followers were named jain.He delivered his first sermon at Pava to his 11 disciples also known as 11Gandharas. Later, he founded a Jain Sangha at Pava.At the page of 72 in 468 BC, he passed away at Pavapuri.36 republics celebrated his salvationThe two sects Shvetambaras (white clad) & Digambaras (sky-clad).The schism in Jainism

In 298 BC, there was a serious famine in Magadha (South Bihar) leading to a great exodus ofmany Jain monks to the Deccan and South India (Shravanbelgola) along with Bhadrabahuand Chandragupta Maurya. Theyreturned back after 12 years. The leader of the group, whichstayed back at Magadha was Sthulabhadra. When the Jains (Bhadrabahu & others) returnedfrom South India, they held that complete nudity be an essential part of the teachings ofMahavira, while the monks in Magadha began to put on white clothes. As a resut two sectswere formed:1. Shvetambaras (i.e. those who put on white robes)under the leadershipof Sthulabhadra2. Digambaras (i.e. those who were stark naked)under the leadership ofBhadrabahu.


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Three Jewels of Jainism1. Right faith4/12/13 Religious Movementswww.halfmantr.com/display-polity/584-religious-movements 8/112. Right knowledge3. Right conductFive Vows of Jainism1. Ahimsa (non-injury)

2. Satya (non-lying)3. Asteya (non-stealing)4. Aparigraha (non-possession)5. Brahmacharya (chastity).The first four vows were laid down by Parshwanath. The firth one was added by Mahavira.Instruments of Knowledge1. Mati Jnana- Perception through activity of sense organs, including the mind2. Shruta jnana- Knowledge revealed byscriptures3. Avadhi jnana- Clairvoyant perception4. Manahparyaya jnanaTelepathic knowledge5. Keval jnana- Temporal knowledge or Omniscience.Jain philosophy

1. Rejected the authority of the Vedas and Vedic rituals.2. The Kalpa Vriksha is associated the Jain philosophy3. God is not responsible for the creation of this world4. The world is eternal and universe cannot be destroyed5. Jain philosophyis close to Sankhya philosophy6. They believe in soul.7. They believe in emancipation of soul by penances8. They believe is cosmic cycles9. Did not believe in the existence of God.10. Believed in Karma and the transmigration of soul.11. Laid great emphasis on equality.4/12/13 Religious Movements

www.halfmantr.com/display-polity/584-religious-movements 9/1112. The Saptabhani or Sayavad or Anekantvada philosophy is associated withJainismJain literature1. The original language of associated with the language of Mahavira is

Aradhmagdhi.2. The oldest texts associated with Jainism are called Purvas, they were 14 innumber.3. The literature is written in both prose and verse4. The other important texts are(i) 12 Angas(ii) 12 Upangas

(iii) 10 Parikarnas(iv) 6 Chhedasutras(v) 4 Mulasutras(vi) 2 Sutra-Granthas.Jain CouncilsThe first councilThe first council was held at Patliputra in 367 B.C under the leadership of Sthulabhadra. Thiscouncil was patronized by Chandragupta Maurya. In this council 11 Angas were compiled.The 12th Anga named Drishtivada was declared lost.The second council


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It was held at Mathura and was presided over by Aryaskandilya.The third councilIt took place in 455 A.D. at Vallabhi and was presided over by Devaradhi Kshamarasana. Inthis council the literature was given a written form.Royal Patrons of Jainism1. Nandas; Bimbisar, Ajatshatru and Udayin (Harayanak dynasty)2. Chandragupta Maurya, Bindusara and Samprate (Mauryan dynasty)

3. Pradyota (Avanti)4. Udayan (SindhuSauvira)4/12/13 Religious Movementswww.halfmantr.com/display-polity/584-religious-movements 10/115. Kharavela (Kalinga).6. Ganga Dynasty7. Kadamb Dynasty8. Amoghavarsha (Rashtrakuta Dynasty).9. Siddharaj Jai Singh and Kumarpala (Chaulikya / Solanki) were the last greatpatrons of Jainism

MAURYAN AGE (322185 B.C.)Sources of information about Mauryas

Literary sources1. Kautilyas Arthasastra2. Megastheneses Indica3. Visakha Dattas Mudra Rakshasa: although it was written during Gupta Period, itdescribes how

Chandragupta Maurya get Chanakyas assistance to overthrow the Nandas.4. Puranas5. Buddhist text Jatakas potrays a general picture of socio-economic conditions of Mauryan Period.6. 6. Buddhist chronicles Dipavamsa and Mahavamsa describe the part played by Ashoka in7. spreadin Buddhism to Sri Lanka.8. 7. Tibetan Buddhist text Divyavadana gives information about Ashoka and his efforts to9. spread BuddhismArchaeological Sources1. Punch mark coins2. Wooden palace of Chandragupta Maurya3. Northen Black Polished Ware (NBPW)4. Ashokan Edicts and Inscriptions: There are Rock Edicts, Pillar Edicts and Caveinscriptions located at several places in the Indian sub-continent.5. Junagadh Rock Inscription of Rudradaman6. Sohgaura Copper Plate Inscription in Gorakhpur district7. Mahasthan Inscription in Bogara district of Bangladesh.8. Inscription from Taxila informs about the officer name Romeo deto

Ashokan EdictsAshokan inscriptions w ere unearthed from 45 places. They are 150 in number. They are expressed in181 versions.

All pillar edicts are carved out of Chunar hills and from there they were dispatched at differentplaces.Language of EdictsThe inscriptions are mostly in Prakrit language and Brahmi script. In North western regionthey are written in Prakrit language and Khroshti and Aramaic script.In Afghanistan they are written in Aramaic script and Greek language.

At Sabhazgarhi and Manshera the script is KhroshtiAt Kandhar, the edicts found are bilingual.


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At Yerraguddi, the minor rock edict has been recorded in Boustrophedon.

Contents of Major Rock Edict1. Prohibition of animal sacrifices & festive gatherings.2. Measures of social welfare, medical mission sent everywhere.3. Respect to Brahamanas. Mention about Yukta, Rajjuka and Pradeshika4. Courtesyto relatives, elders, consideration for animals.

5. Appointment of Dhamma Mahamatras & their duties.6. Need for efficient organization of administration (orders to Dhamma Mahamatras).7. Need for tolerance among all religious sects. All sects dwell in peace.8. System of Dhamma-yatras.9. Attack on meaningless ceremonies & rituals.10. Conquest through Dhamma instead of war.11. Explanation of Dhamma-policy.12. Appeal for tolerance among all religious sects.4/12/13 MauryaDynastywww.halfmantr.com/display-polity/115-maurya-dynasty 5/1313. Kalinga war, mention five contemporary Hellenic (Greek) kings.14. Inspiration to spend religious life.15. 1

st separate Rock edict at Dhauli talks about All subjects are mychildren.{/niftybox}Origin of the MauryasBuddhist text describe them as Kshatriyas, according to Mahaparinirvan SutraMauryas were Kshatriyas of Pipalvhan. They were also associated with the Moratribe associated with peacock tamers.

According to Jaina texts Mauryas were neither of higher nor of lower originThe Puranas and Bhramanic literature describe them as Shudras.

Mudrakshasa of Vishakhadatta uses the terms like Vrishal or KulhinaJustin describes Chandragupta only as a man of humble origin.The Junagarh Rock Inscription of Rudradaman (150 AD) has some indirectevidence, which suggest that the Mauryas may have been of Vaishya origin.

Chandragupta Maurya (322298 B.C.)Chandragupta dethroned the last Nanda ruler Dhananand, he first captured theregion of North West

Apianus tells us that in 305 BC, Chandragupta Maurya defeated Selecus Nikator atthe bank of river Indus, who surrendered a vast territory including Aria (heart),

Arachosia (Kandhar), Gedrosia (Baluchistan) & Paropanisade (Kabul), in return for500 elephants.

After the treaty with Selecus Nikator, the boundary of empire reached up-toHindukush.Megasthenese was a Greek ambassador sent to the court of Chandragupta Mauryaby Selecus Nikator.Chandragupta adopted Jainism and went to Chandragiri Hill, Sravanbelgola

(Karnataka) with Bhadrabahu, where he died byslow starvation.Under Chandragupta Maurya, for the first time, the whole of Northern India was4/12/13 MauryaDynastywww.halfmantr.com/display-polity/115-maurya-dynasty 6/13united.Bindusara: (298273 B.C.)Chandragupta Maurya was succeeded by his son Bindusara.He is known by different names like Madrasar, Simhasena and Amitrochates

According to Smith and Lama Taraknath, Bindusara conquered the land between thetwo seas.King of Syria Antiochus I sent his ambassador Diamakus to the court of Bindusar.

Antiochus I asked for sweet wine, dried figs and a sophist. Wine and figs were sent


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The Western part came to be ruled by Kunala and then by Samprati for a short while.Eastern part came to be ruled by Dasaratha.The last Mauryan ruler, Brihadratha, was assassinated in 185 BC by hiscommender-in-chief, Pushyamitra Sunga, who established his own Sunga dynasty.Mauryan administrationThe Mauryan government was a centralized bureaucracy with king as fountainheadof all the powers. However, he was assisted bythe council of ministers i.e. mantri

parishad.The Mauryan administration was highlycentralized, the officers even up to thelowest level were appointed bythe centre and these officers were accountable to thecentre.

According to Kautilya/ Chanakya, there are 7 elements of states (Saptanga theory)-Raja (the king), Amatya (the secretaries), Janapada (territory), Durg (fort), Kosha (thetreasure), Sena (Army) and Mitra (Friend).The state during this period activelytook part, as well as regulates the trade andcommerce.The officers were paid salaryin cash.Important Officials during Mauryan periodIn 2

nd, 3rd and 4th Major Rock Edicts of Ashoka, there are references of officers. Arthashastraand Indica also throw light on the officers in Mauryan age. These texts mention about 18tireths (ministers) and 23 (adhyakshas) heads.The 3rd Major Rock edict of Ashoka mentions three officers i.e. Yukta, Rajjuka andPradeshika. The list of important officials is as:4/12/13 MauryaDynastywww.halfmantr.com/display-polity/115-maurya-dynasty 9/134/12/13 MauryaDynastywww.halfmantr.com/display-polity/115-maurya-dynasty 10/13

Provincial administrationThe empire was divided into five provinces:Local and Municipal AdministrationThe provinces were divided into districts which were known as Vish or AharaThe three officials mentioned in Ashokan edicts i.e. Yukta, Rajjuka and Pradeshika4/12/13 MauryaDynawww.halfmantr.com/display-polity/115-maurya-dynasty 11/13were associated with the district administrationThe Gramika was the head of villageNagaraka was the chief officer responsible for the law and order in the city.Kautilya devotes a full chapter to the rules of the Nagarak i.e. citysuperintendent. Hischief duty was maintenance of law and order.The municipal administration of the cities was excellent during Mauryan period.

Megasthenese gives an account of the committee system of administering themunicipalities in the cities. There were 6 committees of five members each.The functions of these sixcommittees were:1. Industrial Arts2. Entertainment of Foreigners3. Registration of Births & Deaths4. Trade & Commerce5. Public sale of manufactured goods6. Collection of taxes on the articles sold

ArmyThe most striking feature of Mauryan administration was maintenance of a huge


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army.Kautilya permitted all the four varnas to serve in the army

According to Pinly, Mauryas maintained an army of sixlakh soldiers.Mauryans also maintained a Navy.In the Mauryan period, there were two types of Gudhapurushas (detectives)Sansthan (stationary) and Sanchari (wandering).Economy

State took active participation in economyShudras were involved in agriculture for the first timeCrown land was called SitaThere were provisions for irrigation bythe stateThe normal taxation rate was one sixth of the produceThe weight and measures were regulated bythe states4/12/13 MauryaDynastywww.halfmantr.com/display-polity/115-maurya-dynasty 12/13Tolls were also levied on commodities brought to town for sale and they werecollected at gate.The state enjoyed monopoly in mining, forest, salt, sale of liquor, manufacture ofarms etc.Sohgaura (Gorakhpur district, U.P.) copper plate inscription & Mahasthana (Bogara

district, Bangladesh) inscription deal with the relief measures to be adopted during afamine.

Previous Year Question from IAS PrelimsAbout CivilServices ExamModel Answer1For Mains4/12/13 50DayCountdown: Day2

www.halfmantr.com/final-countdown/1290-50-day-countdown-day-2 4/111. Between which of the following was the ancient town of Takshasila located? ( CivilServices Exam 2006)a) Indus and Jhelumb) Jhelum and Chenabc) Chenab and Ravid) Ra vi and Beas

Ans. a2. Who among the following was not a contemporary of the other three? ( Civil ServicesExam 2005)a) Bimbsarab) Gaautama Budha

c) Milindad) Prasenjit

Ans. c3. The practice of military governorship was first introduced in India bythe ( CivilServices Exam 2000)a) Greeksb) Sakasc) Parthiansd) Mughals

Ans. b4. Which one of the following dynasties was ruling over North India at the time of


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Alexanders invasion? (Civil Services Exam 2000)a) Nandab) Mauryac) Sungad) Kanva

Ans. a4/12/13 50DayCountdown: Day2www.halfmantr.com/final-countdown/1290-50-day-countdown-day-2 5/11

5. One consistent feature found in the history of southern India was the growth of smallregional kingdoms rather than large empires because of( Civil Services Exam 2006)a) The absence of minerals like ironb) Too many divisions in the social structurec) The absence of vast areas of fertile landd) The scarcity of manpower

Ans. c6. Which one of the following was initiallythe most powerful citystate of India in the 6thcentury BC? ( Civil Services Exam 1999)a) Gandhar

b) Kambojc) Kashad) Megadh

Ans. c7. Which of the following pairs are correctly matched? (( Civil Services Exam 1998)1.) Lothal: Ancient dockyard2.) Sarnath: First Sermon of Buddha3.) Rajgir: Lion capital of Ashoka4.) Nalanda: Great seat of Buddhist learningSelect the correct answer using the codes given below:Codes:

a) 1, 2, 3 and 4b) 3 and 4c) 1, 2 and 4d) 1 and 2

Ans. c8. With reference to the history of ancient India, which of the following was/were commonto both Buddhism and Jainism? ( Civil Services Exam 2012)1.) Avoidance of extremities of penance and enjoyment.4/12/13 50DayCountdown: Day2www.halfmantr.com/final-countdown/1290-50-day-countdown-day-2 6/112.) Indifference to the authority of Vedas.3.) Denial of efficiency of ritualsSelect the correct answer using the given code below:

a) 1 onlyb) 2 and 3 onlyc) 1 and 3 onlyd) 1, 2 and 3

Ans. b9. Lord Buddhas image ins sometimes shown with the hand gesture called

Bhumisparsha Mudra. It symbolizes ( Civil Services Exam 2012)a) Buddhas calling of the Earth to watch his meditation and to prevent Maraform disturbing his meditation.b) Buddhas calling for the Earth to witness his purity and chastity despite thetemptations of Mara


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c) Buddhas reminder to his followers that they all arise from Earth andfinally dissolve into the Earth, and thus this life is transitory.d) Both the statements (a) and (b) are correct in this context.

Ans. b10. The Jain philosophy holds that the world is created and maintained by( Civil ServicesExam 2011)a) Universal Law

b) Universal Truthc) Universal Faithd) Universal Soul

Ans. a11. Anekantavada is a core theory and philosophy of which one of the following? ( CivilServices Exam 2009)a) Buddhismb) Jainismc) Sikhism4/12/13 50DayCountdown: Day2www.halfmantr.com/final-countdown/1290-50-day-countdown-day-2 7/11d) Vaishnavism

Ans. b

12. With reference to ancient Jainism, which of the following statements is correct? ( CivilServices Exam 2009)a) Jainism was spread in South India under the leadership of Sthulabahub) The Jainas who remained under the leadership of Bhadrabahu werecalled Shvetambaras after the Council held at Pataliputrac) Jainism enjoyed the patronage of the Kalinga king Kharavela in the firstcentury BC.d) In the initial stage of Jainism, the Jainas worshipped images unlikeBuddhists

Ans. c13. Consider the following statements: ( Civil Services Exam 2003)

1.) Vardhaman Mahaviras mother was the daughter of LIchchhavi chiefChetaka.2.) Gautama Buddhas mother was a princess from the Kosalan dynasty.3.) Parshvanatha, the twenty-third Tirthankara, belonged to Benaras.Which of these statements is/are correct?a) Only 1b) Only 2c) 2 and 3d) 1, 2 and 3

Ans. c14. In ancient Indian Buddhist monasteries, a ceremonycalled Pavarana used to be held. Itwas the ( Civil Services Exam 2002)

a) Occasion to elect the Sanghaparinayaka and two speakers. One ofDhamma and the other on Vinayab) Confession by monks of their offence committed during their stayin themonasteries during the rainyseasonc) Ceremony of initiation of new person into the Buddhist Sangha in whichthe head is shaved and yellow robes are offered4/12/13 50DayCountdown: Day2www.halfmantr.com/final-countdown/1290-50-day-countdown-day-2 8/11d) Gathering of Buddhist monks on the next dayto the fullmoon day of

Ashadha when theytake up a fixed abode for the next four months of rainyseason

Ans. b


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16. Many of the Greeks Kushanas and Shakas embraced Buddhism rather than Hindustanbecause(( Civil Services Exam 1998)a) Buddhism was in the ascendant at that timeb) They had renounced the policy of war and violencec) Caste-ridden Hinduism did not attract themd) Buddhism provided easier access to Indian society

Ans. d

17. The concept of the Eight-Fold Path forms the theme of ( Civil Services Exam 1997)a) Dipavamsab) Divyavadanac) Mahaparinirvan Suttad) Dharma Chakra Pravartana Sutta

Ans. dMaurya18. The ancient Indian play Mudrarakshasa of Visakhadatta has its subject on ( CivilServices Exam 2002)a) A conflict between Gods and Demons of ancient Hindu loreb) A romantic story of an Aryan prince of a tribal womanc) The story of power struggle between two Aryan tribes

d) The court intrigues at the time of Chandragupta MauryaAns. d20. The following person came to India at one time or another: ( Civil Services Exam 1999)1.) Fa-Hien2.) I-Tsing4/12/13 50DayCountdown: Day2www.halfmantr.com/final-countdown/1290-50-day-countdown-day-2 9/11+1Reply | Reply w ith quote | Quote+13.) Megasthenese4.) Hieun-Tsang

The correct chronological sequence of their visits is:a) 3, 1, 2, 4b) 3, 1,4, 2c) 1,3, 2, 4d) 1, 3, 4, 2

Ans. b21. Which one of the following ancient Indian records is the earliest royal order to preservefood grains to be utilized during the crises in the country? ( Civil Services Exam 2006)a) Sohogaura Copper-plateb) Rumminidei pillar-edict of Ashokac) Prayag-Prasastid) Mehrauli pillar inscription of Chandra

Ans. a23. The Ashokan major rock edicts which tell us about the Sangam kingdom include rockedicts ( Civil Services Exam 1998)a) I and Xb) I and XIc) II and XIIId) II and XIV

Ans. c

pre mauryan

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