The Kalinga War was a pivotal event in the reign of the Indian emperor Ashoka the Great. It took place around 261 BCE, towards the later part of Ashoka's rule. The war was fought between the Mauryan Empire, led by Ashoka, and the state of Kalinga, a region in present-day Odisha, India.
The Kalinga War is significant because it had a profound impact on Ashoka. The battle was extremely brutal and resulted in a massive loss of life and suffering. Witnessing the devastation and human misery caused by the war deeply affected Ashoka. He is said to have been filled with remorse and a desire for a more peaceful and compassionate path.
As a result of this transformation, Ashoka adopted Buddhism and the principles of non-violence, tolerance, and moral righteousness. He renounced the expansionist and militaristic policies of his early rule and instead focused on promoting dharma (righteousness) and the welfare of his people. He issued a series of edicts across his empire, known as the Edicts of Ashoka, which conveyed his commitment to these principles and his efforts to spread Buddhism and social harmony.
The Kalinga War thus played a significant role in Ashoka's transformation into a promoter of peace and Buddhism, making it a crucial event in Indian history.
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