Inner Sorrow of Ashoka on War and Violence

The Mauryan Emperor Ashoka is known for his transformation from a ruthless conqueror to a peaceful Buddhist ruler. His edicts are a reflection of his thoughts and actions. Among them, the Kalinga Separate Rock Edicts reveal his inner sorrow on account of war and violence.

Background

Ashoka's campaign against the Kalinga kingdom in 261 BCE was one of the bloodiest battles in Indian history. It resulted in the deaths of thousands of soldiers and civilians, and the destruction of the kingdom. However, the aftermath of the war had a profound impact on Ashoka, who was moved by the suffering he had caused and the futility of war.

Contents of the Edict

The Kalinga Separate Rock Edicts were written by Ashoka after the war to express his remorse and urge his subjects to embrace non-violence and compassion. Some of the key points in the edict are:

- Ashoka's personal sorrow and regret over the war and the loss of life
- His realization that conquest by force is not a permanent solution to problems
- His commitment to spreading the message of Dhamma (Buddhist teachings) as a means of promoting peace and harmony
- His instructions to his officials to treat all people with kindness and respect, regardless of their caste or religion
- His warning that failure to follow his edicts would result in punishment

Significance

The Kalinga Separate Rock Edicts are significant because they reveal Ashoka's inner transformation and his desire to promote peace and non-violence. They also provide insight into the political and social context of the Mauryan Empire and the challenges faced by its rulers. Today, the edicts are considered a valuable source of information on ancient Indian history and culture, and serve as a reminder of the importance of compassion and tolerance in society.

As per Kalinga war among 1 lakh solders and bramins as died totally this war began as become volience. Due to that Kalinga kingdom polluted with blood due to volience nature is polluted so muryan empire ashoka got victory. This war ashoka attitude changed towards to follow dharma to follow buddhist religion. Ashoka constrated Kalinga separate rock edicts towards message peaceful atmosphere option c is correct