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  Indian history

  Posted by Shubhangi Jasrotia on June 17, 2023 at 3:56 pm

  Describe Ashoka’s inscription describing the Kalinga war. How did the Kalinga War bring about a change in Ashoka’s attitude towards war ?

  Divya Singh replied 1 year, 2 months ago 2 Members · 1 Reply

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  Divya Singh

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  June 21, 2023 at 9:57 pm

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  Ashoka, the Mauryan emperor, left a significant historical account through his inscriptions, providing insights into his reign and personal transformation. Among these inscriptions, the one describing the Kalinga War holds particular significance. The Kalinga War waged around 261 BCE, played a pivotal role in reshaping Ashoka’s attitude towards warfare.

  Ashoka’s inscription recounts the horrors and suffering he witnessed during the Kalinga War. He describes the immense loss of life, the sorrow of families torn apart, and the devastation inflicted upon the land. This reveals the profound impact the war had on Ashoka’s conscience and his subsequent change in perspective.

  The Kalinga War marked a turning point in Ashoka’s life and reign. The scale of destruction and human suffering caused by the conflict deeply affected him, leading to a profound shift in his attitude toward war. Ashoka, once known for his military prowess and conquests, was now awakened to the futility and immense human cost of violence and aggression.

  As a result of this transformation, Ashoka embraced the principles of non-violence, compassion, and moral governance. He sought to promote peace, unity, and the welfare of his subjects. Ashoka implemented policies centered on social welfare, including the construction of hospitals, the promotion of religious tolerance, and the establishment of a just legal system.

  Ashoka’s change of heart also had far-reaching implications beyond his empire. He aspired to spread his message of peace and righteousness to other regions, including through the sending of emissaries to neighboring kingdoms and the dissemination of his edicts and inscriptions across his dominions.

  The Kalinga War became a catalyst for Ashoka’s profound transformation, propelling him towards a path of non-violence and moral enlightenment. The horrors of the conflict led him to renounce violence and embrace principles of compassion, non-violence, and social welfare. The Kalinga War became the catalyst for Ashoka’s transformative reign, leaving a lasting legacy of peace and ethical governance.

  You can watch this interesting video as well.

  https://youtu.be/b3oKeI8zzeQ

  • This reply was modified 1 year, 2 months ago by  Divya Singh.

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