Question

Which event brought about a profound change in Ashoka's administrative policy?

• A. His sending missionary to Ceylon
• B. The Kalinga War
• C. His embracing of Buddhism
• D. The third Buddhist Council

Answer 1

Answer:

B. The Kalinga War

• The Mauryan Empire, under Ashoka, sought to expand its territory, and the independent kingdom of Kalinga (present-day Odisha and parts of Andhra Pradesh) was a significant obstacle. • The war was exceptionally brutal, with ancient sources suggesting immense casualties, estimated to be over 100,000 soldiers and civilians killed, and even more injured or displaced. • The sheer scale of death and suffering witnessed by Ashoka on the battlefield had a deep and lasting impact on him.