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Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - UPSC MCQ


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30 Questions MCQ Test History for UPSC CSE - Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2

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Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 1

Which one of the following sources informed us about the division of Indian society into seven castes?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 1
Explanation:

  • Division of Indian society into seven castes: The source that informed us about the division of Indian society into seven castes is the Indica.


Indica:

  • The Indica is a work by the Greek historian Megasthenes, who was an ambassador of Seleucus Nicator in the court of Chandragupta Maurya.

  • In his work, Megasthenes describes the social structure of India, including the division of society into seven castes.

  • He mentions that the Indian society was divided into seven principal castes, each with its own occupation and duties.

  • This division of society into seven castes is an important insight into the social structure of ancient India.

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 2

Which one of the following foreign kings was a contemporary of Ashoka?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 2
Foreign Kings Contemporary to Ashoka:

  • Ptolemy Philadelphos: Ptolemy Philadelphos, also known as Ptolemy II, was a contemporary foreign king of Ashoka. He ruled over Egypt and was a contemporary ruler during the Mauryan Empire.

  • Antioches: Antioches, also known as Antiochus II Theos, was another foreign king who was contemporary to Ashoka. He ruled over the Seleucid Empire, which was another powerful kingdom during Ashoka's reign.

  • Magas: Magas, the ruler of the Greek-influenced kingdom of Cyrene, was also a contemporary of Ashoka. He was involved in various political and military activities during the same period as Ashoka.


Conclusion:

  • All of the above: Therefore, all of the foreign kings mentioned - Ptolemy Philadelphos, Antioches, and Magas - were contemporaries of Ashoka, the Mauryan Emperor.

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Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 3

Which one of the following Pillar inscriptions referred Ashoka as ‘Devanampiyah’ and ‘Piyadarshi’?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 3
Explanation:

  • Devanampiyah and Piyadarshi: These were the titles given to Ashoka in his inscriptions.

  • Minor Pillar Inscriptions: These were inscriptions found on pillars erected by Ashoka across his empire.

  • Sarnath Inscription: The inscription at Sarnath is one of the Minor Pillar inscriptions that refer to Ashoka as Devanampiyah and Piyadarshi.

  • Kausambi Inscription: The inscription at Kausambi does not refer to Ashoka with these titles.

  • Sanchi Inscription: The inscription at Sanchi also refers to Ashoka as Devanampiyah and Piyadarshi.

  • All of the above: Since both the inscriptions at Sarnath and Sanchi refer to Ashoka as Devanampiyah and Piyadarshi, the correct answer is D.

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 4

‘Mudra-Rakshasa’ by Visakhadatta has bearing on the reign of

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 4
Explanation:

  • 'Mudra-Rakshasa' by Visakhadatta: This historical play is set during the reign of Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Maurya Empire.

  • Relevance to Chandragupta Maurya: The play revolves around the political intrigues and power struggles during the time of Chandragupta Maurya.

  • Character of Rakshasa: The play also features the character of Chanakya, who is instrumental in the rise of Chandragupta Maurya to power.

  • Connection to the Maurya Empire: 'Mudra-Rakshasa' provides insight into the administration and governance of the Maurya Empire under Chandragupta Maurya.

  • Impact of the Play: The play serves as a valuable historical source for understanding the political landscape of ancient India during the Mauryan period.

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 5

Which statement on Mauryan provincial administration is not correct?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 5
Incorrect Statement on Mauryan Provincial Administration:

  • Statement E: The viceroys had autonomous powers to administer the provinces.


Detailed

  • Statement A: Important provinces had princes of the royal blood as their viceroy.

  • Statement B: The Ashokan inscriptions refer to three viceroys stationed at Taxila, Tosali, and Brahmagiri.

  • Statement C: Buddhist tradition refers to a fourth viceroy at Ujjaini and a later Saka inscription incidentally refers to a fifth viceroy at Girnar.

  • Statement D: The viceroy at Girnar under Chandragupta was a Vaisya named Pushyagupta and the one under Ashoka was a Yavana named Tushashpa.


The administrative system during the Mauryan period was highly organized, with viceroys overseeing various provinces on behalf of the central authority. The viceroys were appointed by the emperor and were expected to follow the directives given to them. They did not have autonomous powers but acted as representatives of the central government in administering the provinces.

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 6

Which one of the following Mauryan provinces had a foreign Governor?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 6

The correct option is B.
 Saurashtra — Junagarh

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 7

Which of the following gives the names of the officers at the district level in the correct decending order?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 7

The correct answer is  A as the names of the officers at the district level in the correct descending order is 
Pradeshika, Rajuka, Yukta

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 8

Match the officers with their functions:

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 9

Which one of the following was not a function of the Parisad in the Mauryan Period?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 9

Function of the Parisad in the Mauryan Period



  • To implement the king's orders: The Parisad was responsible for carrying out the commands and directives of the Mauryan king, ensuring that his decisions were effectively put into action.


  • To decide matters in the absence of the kings: In the absence of the king, the Parisad acted as a governing body, making decisions on behalf of the ruler to ensure the smooth functioning of the administration.


  • To keep a check on the administrative system: The Parisad played a crucial role in monitoring and evaluating the administrative processes and systems in place, identifying any shortcomings or areas for improvement.


  • Not a function of the Parisad: Keeping a watch on the conduct of wars was not a function typically associated with the Parisad in the Mauryan Period. This task was usually carried out by the king and his military advisors separately from the council.


By understanding the various functions of the Parisad during the Mauryan Period, we can see that while it played a significant role in assisting the king in governance and decision-making, monitoring the administration, and acting as a substitute ruling body in the absence of the king, overseeing military matters was not within its purview.
Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 10

The special urban official who formed into six councils or boards and who looked after Pataliputra were known by the name of

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 10
Explanation:

  • Astynomois: The special urban official who formed into six councils or boards and who looked after Pataliputra were known as Astynomois. This term refers to the administrative officials in ancient Greek cities who were responsible for maintaining law and order.

  • Antamahamatras: This term does not relate to the special urban officials in Pataliputra.

  • Nagarsashakas: This term does not relate to the special urban officials in Pataliputra.

  • Rajukas: This term does not relate to the special urban officials in Pataliputra.


Therefore, the correct answer is Astynomois.

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 11

Which one of the following was regarded as the standard coin during the Mauryan period?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 11
Standard Coin During the Mauryan Period

  • Nishka: Nishka was a standard unit of measurement during the Mauryan period, but it was not the standard coin.


  • Krishnala: Krishnala was a type of coin used in ancient India, but it was not the standard coin during the Mauryan period.


  • Pana: Pana was considered the standard coin during the Mauryan period. It was a common currency used for trade and transactions.


  • Suvarna: Suvarna was a valuable coin made of gold, but it was not the standard coin during the Mauryan period.


Therefore, the correct answer is Pana, which was regarded as the standard coin during the Mauryan period.

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 12

What is Vishti?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 12
What is Vishti?

  • Definition: Vishti refers to forced labor in ancient Indian society.

  • Origin: The term Vishti is derived from the Sanskrit word "Vashti," which means forced or compulsory labor.

  • Practice: Vishti was a common practice in ancient India where individuals were forced to perform labor without their consent or will.

  • Usage: Vishti was often used as a form of punishment or as a means to complete public works projects in ancient Indian society.

  • Significance: The practice of Vishti was often associated with social and economic exploitation, where individuals were subjected to harsh working conditions and little to no compensation.


Overall, Vishti was a form of forced labor that was prevalent in ancient Indian society and was often used as a means of punishment or to complete public works projects.

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 13

Which of the following was not one of the fiscal measures that could be adopted in emergency?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 13
Fiscal Measures in Emergency

  • Raising of Tax to one-third or one-fourth: This measure involved increasing the tax burden on the people during emergencies to raise additional revenue for the government.


  • Levy of Pranaya (a gift of affection): This was a voluntary contribution or gift given by the people as a form of support during emergencies. It was not a compulsory tax but a gesture of goodwill.


  • Imposition of Vishti: This measure was not one of the fiscal measures that could be adopted in an emergency. Vishti was a ritualistic offering of food made to appease the gods and was not related to financial measures.


  • Forcing the Cultivators to Raise Two Crops: This measure aimed at increasing agricultural productivity during emergencies by mandating cultivators to grow two crops instead of one, thereby ensuring food security.


Conclusion

  • Therefore, out of the options provided, the imposition of Vishti was not a fiscal measure that could be adopted in an emergency. The other options, such as raising taxes, levying gifts of affection, and promoting agricultural production, were more directly related to financial measures to address emergency situations.

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 14

Which one of the following items of revenue was paid in cash during Mauryan period?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 14
Explanation:

  • Bhaga (Land tax): Bhaga was a type of land tax that was collected in the form of a share of the produce. It was not typically paid in cash but rather in kind.

  • Bali (Extra impost on special tracts): Bali was an extra impost imposed on special tracts of land. It was also usually paid in kind rather than cash.

  • Kara (A special harsh tax): Kara was a special harsh tax imposed on the people. It was not specifically mentioned to be paid in cash, but it was likely collected in whatever form was available.

  • Hiranya (Tax on special classes crops): Hiranya was a tax imposed on special classes of crops. Unlike the other revenue items mentioned, this tax could potentially have been paid in cash as it was directly related to the crops themselves.


Therefore, during the Mauryan period, the revenue item that was most likely paid in cash was the Hiranya (Tax on special classes crops).
Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 15

Existence of slaves is mentioned in Indian sources. Which one of the following was the most likely reason for Megasthenes’ statement that there were no slaves?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 15
Reasoning:
- Megasthenes, a Greek historian, mentioned that there were no slaves in India.
- This statement contradicts the existence of slaves in Indian sources.

Explanation:
- Option A: Since they could own property, earn for themselves and even in some cases buy back their freedom, they were very different from their Greek counterparts.
- This could be a likely reason for Megasthenes' statement. The system of servitude in India might have been different from the traditional concept of slavery in Greece.

- Option B: They formed part of the larger group of outcastes.
- This might not directly explain Megasthenes' statement about the absence of slaves in India. The status of outcastes does not necessarily mean the absence of slavery.

- Option C: The human treatment meted out to them made their position unrecognizable.
- This option suggests that the treatment of slaves in India was so humane that they were not easily recognizable as slaves. However, this does not fully explain why Megasthenes claimed there were no slaves.

- Option D: The position of the slaves was indistinguishable from that of hired laborers.
- This could also be a possible reason for Megasthenes' statement. If the status of slaves and hired laborers was similar in India, it might have led to confusion for someone from a different cultural background like Megasthenes.
Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 16

The lowest order in the social scale of Mauryan society was not a slave but the outcaste. Which one of the following statements about the outcastes is not correct?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 16
Explanation:

  • Their caste names referred directly to their profession or work: Outcastes were often identified by their occupation or work, which was considered lower in the social hierarchy.

  • They lived together with their families outside the towns: Outcastes were segregated from the rest of society and often lived on the outskirts of towns or villages.

  • They accepted the position of social ostracism: Outcastes were aware of their lower social status and generally accepted the discrimination and ostracism they faced.

  • They were banded into guilds: This statement is incorrect. Outcastes were not typically organized into guilds like other social groups. They often lacked the same level of social organization and support.


Therefore, the correct statement about outcastes is that they were not banded into guilds.

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 17

Which one of the following officers were special reporters and had direct access to the king?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 17
Explanation:

  • Pativedakas: Pativedakas were special reporters who had direct access to the king. They were responsible for conveying important information and messages to the king.

  • Pulisani: Pulisanis were not special reporters with direct access to the king. They were officials responsible for maintaining law and order in the kingdom.

  • Lipikas: Lipikas were clerks or record keepers who were responsible for maintaining official records and documents.

  • Tirthas: Tirthas were officers responsible for overseeing religious and ceremonial functions in the kingdom.

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 18

Which one of the following would be the most accurate description of the Maurya monarchy under Ashoka?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 18
Explanation:

  • Enlightened despotism: This term refers to a ruler who exercises absolute authority but uses their power for the benefit of their subjects. While Ashoka did implement policies that promoted the welfare of his people, his rule was not solely based on absolute authority.


  • Paternal despotism: This term accurately describes Ashoka's monarchy as he was seen as a father figure to his subjects, guiding them with a sense of care and responsibility. His policies focused on promoting social welfare, religious tolerance, and non-violence.


  • Guided democracy: This term implies a system where the ruler guides the democratic process, which does not accurately describe the Maurya monarchy under Ashoka. While he did take into account the opinions of his council and people, ultimate authority still lay with him.


  • Centralized autocracy: This term refers to a system where power is concentrated in the hands of a single ruler, which accurately describes the Maurya monarchy under Ashoka. He had centralized authority over a vast empire and ruled with a strong hand, implementing policies that affected all aspects of society.


Therefore, the most accurate description of the Maurya monarchy under Ashoka would be Paternal despotism, as it reflects his role as a caring and responsible ruler who wielded absolute authority for the benefit of his subjects.

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 19

Which one of the following officers were charged with superintendence of women?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 19

Officers charged with superintendence of women:


  • Ithijhakha-mahamattas:
Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 20

Which one of the following statements about the new service of the dhamma-mahamattas introduced by Ashoka is not correct?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 20
Explanation:

  • Incorrect Statement: They alone were responsible for the working of dhamma.

  • Corrected Statements:


Correct Statements:

  • During the reign of Ashoka they were given wide powers and responsibilities.

  • They looked into the complaints of law-abiding people and ensured fair treatment to them.

  • They also attended the welfare of prisoners and the inspection of the judiciary.


While the dhamma-mahamattas introduced by Ashoka were indeed given significant powers and responsibilities, they were not solely responsible for the working of dhamma. Instead, they played a crucial role in various aspects of governance and administration, such as addressing complaints, ensuring fair treatment, and overseeing the welfare of prisoners and the judiciary. Therefore, the statement that they alone were responsible for the working of dhamma is not correct.

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 21

According to which tradition Ashoka is said to have visited Khotan in central Asia in 236 B.C.?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 21

Explanation:

  • Jaina Tradition: According to Jaina tradition, Ashoka is not believed to have visited Khotan in central Asia in 236 B.C. This tradition does not mention any such visit by Ashoka.
  • Buddhist Tradition: The Buddhist tradition holds that Ashoka, the Mauryan emperor, did visit Khotan in central Asia in 236 B.C. during his reign. This tradition is based on historical records and accounts.
  • Chinese Tradition: The Chinese tradition does not mention Ashoka visiting Khotan in central Asia in 236 B.C. Their records do not indicate any such visit by the Mauryan emperor.
  • Tibetan Tradition: The Tibetan tradition also does not mention Ashoka visiting Khotan in central Asia in 236 B.C. There is no historical evidence to support this claim in Tibetan records.

Therefore, according to the Buddhist tradition, Ashoka is said to have visited Khotan in central Asia in 236 B.C. This visit is recorded in historical accounts and is widely accepted in Buddhist historical narratives.

 

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 22

Who said that “the royal palace halls of Ashoka.... were all made by spirits”?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 22
Explanation:

  • Fahien: A Chinese Buddhist monk who traveled to India during the 5th century and wrote about his experiences in his travelogue.

  • Hieun Tsang: Another Chinese Buddhist monk who traveled to India in the 7th century and also documented his journey.

  • I-Tsing: A Chinese Buddhist monk who traveled to India in the 7th century and wrote about his travels and studies.

  • Wang-Hiuen-Tse: Another name for Xuanzang, a famous Chinese Buddhist monk who traveled to India in the 7th century.




  • The quote about "the royal palace halls of Ashoka... were all made by spirits" is attributed to Fahien, as he was one of the early Chinese travelers to India and documented his observations during his journey.

  • Fahien's writings provide valuable insights into the history, culture, and architecture of ancient India, including references to prominent structures like the royal palace halls of Ashoka.

  • His accounts have been instrumental in understanding the religious and cultural exchanges between India and China during that period.

  • By studying Fahien's travelogue, historians and scholars can gain a deeper understanding of the ancient world and the interactions between different civilizations.

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 23

Which Edict refers to Ashoka’s supposed presence in BuddhistSangha?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 23

The correct option is B.
The Minor Rock Edicts of Ashoka (r.269-233 BCE) are rock inscriptions which form the earliest.In the Gujarra Minor Rock Edict also, the name of Ashoka is used together.

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 24

Among the successors of Ashoka who is referred to as a patron of Jains almost in the same light as Buddhist texts treat Ashoka?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 24
Successor of Ashoka as a Patron of Jains

  • Samprati: Among the successors of Ashoka, Samprati is referred to as a patron of Jains almost in the same light as Buddhist texts treat Ashoka.


Explanation

  • Samprati was the grandson of Ashoka and ruled the Mauryan Empire after him.

  • He is known for his patronage of Jainism and is believed to have built numerous Jain temples and monasteries during his reign.

  • Samprati's support for Jainism is comparable to the way Ashoka is revered in Buddhist texts for his promotion of Buddhism.

  • His reign marked a period of growth and prosperity for the Jain community in India.

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 25

The information that Ashoka had large number of brothers, and he was guilty of murdering them, is primarily found in

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 25
Buddhist accounts

  • According to Buddhist accounts, Ashoka had a large number of brothers.

  • It is believed that Ashoka was responsible for murdering his brothers to secure his claim to the throne.

  • These accounts provide insights into the violent and ruthless nature of Ashoka before his conversion to Buddhism.


The inscription

  • Some inscriptions found from the time of Ashoka also mention his brothers and the violence that occurred within the royal family.

  • These inscriptions corroborate the accounts found in Buddhist texts.

  • They provide historical evidence of the events surrounding Ashoka and his rise to power.


The Ceylonese chronicles

  • The Ceylonese chronicles, such as the Mahavamsa, also mention the violent acts committed by Ashoka, including the murder of his brothers.

  • These chronicles provide another source of information regarding Ashoka's early life and the struggles for power within the Mauryan dynasty.

  • They offer a different perspective on the events compared to Buddhist accounts and inscriptions.


Foreign accounts

  • There are also foreign accounts, such as Greek and Roman writings, that mention Ashoka and his reign.

  • While these accounts may not specifically focus on the murder of his brothers, they provide additional historical context to the time period.

  • Foreign accounts offer a broader view of Ashoka's rule and how it was perceived by other civilizations.


By examining these different sources, it becomes clear that the information about Ashoka having a large number of brothers and being guilty of murdering them is primarily found in Buddhist accounts, inscriptions, Ceylonese chronicles, and to some extent in foreign accounts. Each of these sources contributes to our understanding of Ashoka's early life and the violent events that shaped his reign.
Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 26

Which statement of Megasthenes is non-controversial?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 26


The correct answer is C as Humans are a diverse lot, but before Western imperialism, 83 percent of indigenous societies were polygynous, 16 percent monogamous, and 1 percent polyandrous (where women have multiple husbands).

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 27

Which Ceylonese king, a contemporary of Ashoka, modelled himself on the latter?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 27
Explanation:

  • Ceylonese King: The Ceylonese king who modelled himself on Ashoka was Tissa.

  • Contemporary of Ashoka: Tissa was a contemporary of Ashoka, the Mauryan Emperor.

  • Similarity to Ashoka: Tissa, like Ashoka, also embraced Buddhism and promoted its teachings.

  • Influence of Ashoka: Tissa was inspired by Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism and his efforts to spread the religion.

  • Legacy of Tissa: Tissa's reign is known for his support of Buddhism and the construction of various Buddhist monuments in Sri Lanka.

Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 28

Which of the following is incorrect?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 28
Incorrect Statement

  • Statement D: One of the six boards of Pataliputra was in charge of the defense of the town.


Detailed Explanation

  • Statement A: One of the six boards of Pataliputra looked after the entertainment of foreigners. This statement is correct as historical records indicate that Pataliputra had specialized boards for various functions.

  • Statement B: One of the six boards of Pataliputra supervised trade and commerce. This statement is also correct as trade and commerce were essential aspects of an ancient city like Pataliputra.

  • Statement C: One of the six boards of Pataliputra collected the tenths of the prices of the articles sold. This statement is accurate as tax collection was a common function of administrative boards in ancient civilizations.

  • Statement D: One of the six boards of Pataliputra was in charge of the defense of the town. This statement is incorrect as historical records do not mention a specific board dedicated to the defense of the town. Defense might have been handled by other means or departments.


Therefore, the incorrect statement among the options provided is statement D, as there is no evidence to support the existence of a specific board in Pataliputra dedicated to the defense of the town.
Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 29

What was the function of officer known as Gopa during the reign of Chandragupta Maurya?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 29
Function of Gopa during the reign of Chandragupta Maurya:

  • Incharge of a group of villages: Gopa was responsible for overseeing and managing a group of villages under the Mauryan administration.

  • Administrative role: He was tasked with ensuring the smooth functioning of these villages and resolving any disputes or issues that arose among the villagers.

  • Collection of taxes: Gopa was also responsible for collecting taxes from the villagers and ensuring that the revenue reached the central government.

  • Reporting to higher authorities: Gopa would report to higher officials in the administrative hierarchy, providing updates on the status of the villages under his jurisdiction.

  • Importance in governance: The role of Gopa was crucial in maintaining law and order, as well as ensuring the economic stability of the villages during the Mauryan period.


By performing these duties efficiently, Gopa played a significant role in the governance and administration of the Mauryan Empire under Chandragupta Maurya.
Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 30

Which one of the following Maurya Kings is believed to have conquered Deccan?

Detailed Solution for Test: The Mauryan Empire - 2 - Question 30

Chandragupta ruled for around 25 years and after that he left his throne for his son Bindusara. Bindusara was called by the Greeks as “Amitraghata” meaning Slayer of enemies. According to some scholars Bindusara have conquered the Deccan upto Mysore. Bindusara conquered 16 states comprising ‘the land between the two seas’ as confirmed by Taranatha, the Tibetan monk. According to Sangam Literature Maurya invaded up to far south. Therefore it can be said that during the rule of Bindusara, the Mauryan dynasty extended as far as Mysore and therefore included almost the whole India but excluded a small portion of unexplored trial and forested regions near Kalinga (Odisha) and the kingdoms of extreme south were not the part of empire.

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