Introduction
The Mauryan Empire was the first large-scale empire in India, established by Chandragupta Maurya. It marked a significant period of political unification, administrative efficiency, economic growth, and cultural development. The empire reached its zenith under Ashoka the Great, who propagated Dhamma and Buddhism.
1. Chandragupta Maurya (321 – 298 BCE)
Founding of the Empire:
- Chandragupta overthrew the Nanda dynasty of Magadha with guidance from Chanakya (Kautilya), author of the Arthashastra.
- Extended empire over northern and central India, including parts of present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Administration:
- Centralized administration with the emperor at the top.
- Provincial system: empire divided into rajyas (provinces), each headed by a governor.
- Well-organized bureaucracy with ministers and officials for taxation, justice, and military.
- Use of spies and intelligence network for internal security.
Economy:
- Agriculture was the mainstay; land revenue collected systematically.
- Trade and commerce flourished, both internal and overseas.
- Standardized weights, measures, and coinage introduced.
Society & Culture:
- Diverse population under a centralized administration.
- Encouraged arts, crafts, and urban planning.
2. Bindusara (298 – 273 BCE)
- Son of Chandragupta; expanded empire southwards up to Mysore and Karnataka.
- Maintained centralized governance and stability.
- Little is known about administration compared to Chandragupta and Ashoka.
3. Ashoka the Great (273 – 232 BCE)
Conquests & Expansion:
- Initially expanded empire through warfare, including the Kalinga War (c. 261 BCE).
- The war’s human cost led to Ashoka embracing Buddhism and non-violence.
Administration:
- Strong centralized administration; divided empire into provinces (Janapadas) governed by royal princes.
- Officials included Amatyas (ministers), Rajukas (district officers), Dandanayakas (military commanders).
- Emphasis on law, justice, and welfare of subjects.
Dhamma Policy:
- Ashoka propagated Dhamma – moral and ethical governance based on non-violence, tolerance, and compassion.
- Edicts inscribed on rocks and pillars across the empire.
- Promoted Buddhism and moral values, encouraged education, healthcare, and animal welfare.
Economy:
- Agriculture, trade, and industry flourished.
- Roads, irrigation, and trade routes developed for better administration and commerce.
Society & Culture:
- Tolerant and multicultural society.
- Patronage of Buddhism, construction of stupas and monasteries (e.g., Sanchi).
- Encouraged arts, crafts, and architecture.
4. Mauryan Society & Economy
Society:
- Hierarchical society; varna system observed.
- Monks, scholars, and artisans supported by royal patronage.
- Spread of Buddhism and Jainism.
Economy:
- Land revenue, trade, and taxes formed the backbone of economy.
- Cities like Pataliputra, Taxila, and Ujjain were trade and administrative hubs.
- Standardized coins, weights, and measures facilitated trade.
Administration:
- Highly centralized with efficient bureaucracy and espionage network.
- Well-maintained roads, posts, and communication system.
5. Decline of Mauryan Empire
- After Ashoka, weak successors and succession disputes.
- Administrative inefficiency and regional rebellions.
- Fell in 185 BCE when Brihadratha Maurya was assassinated by Pushyamitra Shunga, founding the Shunga dynasty.
Significance
Infrastructure development, urban planning, and trade networks laid the foundation for future empires.
First empire to unify most of India under a single administration.
Established a model of centralized governance, law, and economy.
Ashoka’s Dhamma and propagation of Buddhism had a long-lasting influence on Indian society and world culture.