Finding out about the Mauryas

Historians reconstructing the Mauryan Empire rely on a wide range of sources, each offering a different kind of clue. The most valuable of these are Asoka’s inscriptions on rocks and pillars — the first time an Indian ruler used stone surfaces to directly address subjects and officials.

Archaeological finds, especially sculpture, provide material evidence of Mauryan art and architecture. Contemporary written works are equally important. The account of Megasthenes, a Greek ambassador at the court of Chandragupta Maurya, survives only in fragments quoted by later writers, but it gives a foreigner’s view of the empire. The Arthashastra, parts of which were probably composed by Kautilya (Chanakya) — traditionally believed to be Chandragupta’s minister — is a treatise on statecraft, economics, and military strategy.

Later religious and literary texts also mention the Mauryas. These include Buddhist, Jaina, and Puranic literature, as well as Sanskrit literary works. While useful, these sources are often less direct than the inscriptions.

Through these inscriptions, Asoka proclaimed what he understood to be dhamma. This concept included:

• Respect towards elders
• Generosity towards Brahmanas and those who renounced worldly life (ascetics)
• Kind treatment of slaves and servants
• Respect for religions and traditions other than one’s own …