The Rock Edicts of Ashoka are a collection of inscriptions on rocks and pillars across the Indian subcontinent, written by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka during his reign in the 3rd century BCE. These edicts are considered to be one of the earliest examples of public proclamation of ethical and moral principles.

The two Rock Edicts of Ashoka that mention the Southern kingdoms are the Second and Thirteenth. These edicts mention the Cholas, Pandyas, Satiyaputra, Keralaputra, and Ceylon (present-day Sri Lanka) as part of the Mauryan empire.

Details of the Second Rock Edict:

- This edict is written in Brahmi script and is located at Girnar in Gujarat.
- It mentions Ashoka's desire to propagate Dhamma (Buddhist teachings) among the people of the Southern kingdoms and beyond.
- The edict states that Ashoka has sent envoys to the Southern kingdoms, including Cholas, Pandyas, and Satiyaputra, to spread the message of Dhamma.
- Ashoka also mentions that he has sent missions to Greek and Hellenistic kingdoms to propagate Dhamma.

Details of the Thirteenth Rock Edict:

- This edict is written in Brahmi script and is located at Dhauli in Odisha.
- It mentions Ashoka's desire to promote social welfare and harmony among the people of his empire, including the people of the Southern kingdoms.
- The edict states that Ashoka has appointed Dhamma Mahamatras (officials responsible for spreading Dhamma) in the Southern kingdoms, including Keralaputra and Ceylon.
- Ashoka also mentions that he has abolished the practice of animal sacrifice and other cruel practices in his empire.

In conclusion, the Second and Thirteenth Rock Edicts of Ashoka mention the Southern kingdoms Cholas, Pandyas, Satiyaputra, Keralaputra, and Ceylon as part of the Mauryan empire and Ashoka's efforts to promote Dhamma and social welfare among the people of his empire.