ASHOKA's Decision after the Kalinga War
After the brutal Kalinga War, Ashoka, the Mauryan emperor, underwent a profound transformation. He was deeply affected by the suffering caused by the war and the extensive loss of life. This led him to reevaluate his policies regarding war and expansion.

Renunciation of War
- Ashoka renounced war as a means of expanding the empire. He realized the futility of violence and the devastating impact it had on his people.
- He embraced the principles of non-violence and compassion, influenced by the teachings of Buddhism.
- Ashoka adopted a policy of Dhamma, which focused on moral principles such as kindness, tolerance, and respect for all living beings.

Focus on Welfare and Peace
- Instead of conquest, Ashoka shifted his focus towards the welfare of his subjects. He implemented policies to improve the lives of his people, including building hospitals, digging wells, and planting trees.
- He promoted religious tolerance and encouraged harmony among different religious communities.

Spread of Buddhism
- Ashoka became a patron of Buddhism and worked to spread its teachings throughout his empire and beyond.
- He sent missionaries to various parts of the world to promote the message of peace and non-violence.

Legacy of Ashoka
- Ashoka's decision to give up war and embrace a policy of peace and compassion had a lasting impact on Indian history.
- He is remembered as one of the greatest rulers of ancient India, known for his moral leadership and commitment to social welfare.
In conclusion, the Kalinga War was a turning point in Ashoka's life, prompting him to abandon his aggressive expansion policies in favor of a more humane and peaceful approach to governance.