Introduction:
The Mauryan period was a significant era in Indian history, marked by the rule of the Mauryan dynasty from 322 BCE to 185 BCE. This period was characterized by the reign of Emperor Ashoka, who played a pivotal role in the spread of Buddhism. Several Buddhist literary sources provide valuable information about the Mauryan period and shed light on various aspects of the time.

Dipavamsa:
The Dipavamsa is a Buddhist chronicle that provides a historical account of the early spread of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Although it primarily focuses on the history of Sri Lanka, it also contains references to the Mauryan period. It mentions the arrival of Mahinda, the son of Emperor Ashoka, in Sri Lanka to propagate Buddhism. This event is significant as it portrays the influence of the Mauryan empire in spreading Buddhism beyond India's borders.

Mahavamsa:
The Mahavamsa is another Buddhist chronicle that covers the history of Sri Lanka from its legendary origins to the 4th century CE. It provides detailed accounts of the reigns of various Sri Lankan kings. Additionally, the Mahavamsa also includes information about the Mauryan period. It describes Emperor Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism and his efforts to propagate the religion. The Mahavamsa also mentions the role played by Ashoka's daughter, Sanghamitra, in spreading Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

Divyavadana:
The Divyavadana is a collection of Buddhist legends and tales. While it does not provide a comprehensive historical account, it contains stories that offer insights into the Mauryan period. The Divyavadana includes narratives about Emperor Ashoka and his interactions with Buddhist monks and nuns. These stories contribute to our understanding of the Mauryan period and the influence of Buddhism during that time.

Mahaparinibbanasutta:
The Mahaparinibbanasutta is a discourse in the Pali Canon, the sacred scriptures of Theravada Buddhism. It recounts the final days and teachings of the Buddha before his death. While the primary focus is on the Buddha's passing, the sutta also mentions the Mauryan period. It refers to Emperor Ashoka as one of the rulers who paid homage to the Buddha's relics after his death. This reference highlights the connection between Buddhism and the Mauryan empire.

Conclusion:
All of the above-mentioned Buddhist literary sources contain information about the Mauryan period. The Dipavamsa, Mahavamsa, Divyavadana, and Mahaparinibbanasutta provide valuable insights into the historical context, spread of Buddhism, and the influence of Emperor Ashoka during the Mauryan period. These sources contribute to our understanding of this significant era in Indian history.