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| Bindusara (298 – 273 B.C.): The Second Mauryan Emperor |
Introduction
Bindusara, the son of Chandragupta Maurya, succeeded his father as the second ruler of the Mauryan Empire. He continued the expansionist policies initiated by his father, further solidifying the empire's dominance in ancient India.
Bindusara (298 – 273 B.C.): The Second Mauryan Emperor
Military Conquests and Territorial Expansion:
Deccan Conquest: Bindusara is credited with conquering the Deccan region, extending the Mauryan Empire's influence southward up to Mysore.
Tibetan Accounts: The Tibetan monk Taranatha states that Bindusara conquered sixteen states, encompassing the land between the two seas.
Sangam Tamil Literature: The Sangam Tamil literature also corroborates the Mauryan invasion of the far south, providing additional evidence of Bindusara's territorial expansion.
Foreign Relations and Diplomatic Ties:
Syrian Embassy: Bindusara received Deimachus, an ambassador from the Syrian king Antiochus I. This diplomatic exchange highlights the Mauryan Empire's growing international influence.
Request for Goods: Bindusara wrote to Antiochus I, requesting sweet wine, dried figs, and a sophist (a Greek philosopher). While the Syrian king sent the first two items, he was unable to fulfill the request for a sophist due to Greek laws prohibiting their export.
Religious Patronage and Succession:
Support for Ajivikas: Bindusara supported the Ajivikas, a religious sect known for their ascetic practices and belief in the doctrine of fate.
Appointment of Ashoka: Bindusara appointed his son Ashoka as the governor of Ujjain, an important city in central India. This appointment would prove to be a significant turning point in the history of the Mauryan Empire, as Ashoka would later succeed Bindusara and implement significant reforms.
Conclusion
Bindusara's reign was characterized by continued expansion, diplomatic engagement, and religious patronage. His conquests and administrative policies further consolidated the Mauryan Empire's position as a dominant force in ancient India. His reign laid the groundwork for the remarkable achievements of his son Ashoka, who would go on to transform the Mauryan Empire and leave a lasting legacy on Indian history.
