Which of the following statements is/are correct with respect to Bind...
Bindusara, the second Mauryan emperor, was a significant ruler who expanded and consolidated the Mauryan Empire. Let us examine the given statements and determine their validity:
1. Bindusara is known to have made a gift of elephants to Selukas, Alexander’s ambassador.
This statement is true. Bindusara sent a diplomatic mission to the Hellenistic king, Antiochus I Soter, who ruled over the Seleucid Empire in present-day Syria and Iran. The mission was headed by his minister, Radhagupta, and it included a large number of elephants as a gift. This event is recorded in the Greek sources as well.
2. He was called as Amitragatha (slayer of enemies) by the Greeks.
This statement is also true. Bindusara is referred to as Amitragatha in Greek sources, which means "destroyer of enemies." This title was probably given to him due to his military conquests and his suppression of rebellions in various parts of the empire.
3. He was assisted by Kautilya in his administration.
This statement is false. Kautilya, also known as Chanakya, was the chief minister and advisor of Bindusara's father, Chandragupta Maurya. However, there is no evidence to suggest that Kautilya served under Bindusara. In fact, Kautilya is believed to have retired from politics after Chandragupta's abdication in favor of Bindusara.
In conclusion, the correct answer is option D, as only statements 1 and 2 are true, while statement 3 is false.