Who was Chandragupta Maurya and what significant empire did he found?

Chandragupta Maurya was the founder and first emperor of the Maurya Empire, which he established in Magadha, located in the Indian subcontinent. His reign is generally dated from approximately 320 BCE to 298 BCE, marking the beginning of a significant period in ancient Indian history.

What historical context influenced Chandragupta Maurya's rise to power?

Chandragupta Maurya's rise to power occurred during a period of unrest following Alexander the Great's Indian campaign and subsequent death in 323 BCE. This era of instability created an environment where Chandragupta could challenge existing powers and establish his own empire.

What were Chandragupta Maurya's initial major military actions according to the text?

Chandragupta Maurya initiated a war against the unpopular Nanda dynasty in Magadha, ultimately defeating them and establishing his own dynasty. He also raised an army to resist and defeat the Greeks, taking control of the eastern Indus Valley.

What are the main categories of historical sources that provide information about Chandragupta Maurya?

Information about Chandragupta Maurya comes from various sources, including Greek-Roman accounts by writers like Megasthenes, Strabo, Arrian, and Justin; Brahmanical texts such as the Puranas and the play Mudrarakshasa; Buddhist texts like the Dipavamsa and Mahavamsa; and Jain religious texts and inscriptions, notably the Parishishtaparvan by Hemachandra. However, many of these sources were written centuries after his time and contain varying details and legends.

Which Greek-Roman writers are mentioned as sources for Chandragupta Maurya's era, and what is the significance of Megasthenes' work?

Greek-Roman sources include writers like Nearchus, Onesicritus, Aristobulus of Cassandreia, Megasthenes, Strabo, Diodorus, Arrian, Pliny the Elder, Plutarch, and Justin. Megasthenes, a contemporary of Chandragupta, served as a Greek ambassador to his court, and fragments of his work preserved by later authors are considered vital for understanding this period of Indian history.

How do Brahmanical, Buddhist, and Jain texts describe Chandragupta Maurya, and what are the potential issues with these accounts?

Brahmanical texts sometimes view the Mauryas as illegitimate rulers due to their background, while later narratives depict Chandragupta's humble origins and his alliance with Chanakya. Buddhist texts often link the Maurya dynasty to Gautama Buddha's clan, possibly for legitimacy, and Jain sources detail his conversion and ascetic life. However, many of these religious accounts were written centuries after his death, leading to inconsistencies and potential biases.

What is the significance of the Arthasastra in relation to Chandragupta Maurya?

The Arthasastra, a treatise on statecraft and economics, is attributed to Chanakya, Chandragupta's minister. While it was once thought to have been written during Chandragupta's reign, most scholars now believe the Arthasastra is not of Mauryan origin and contains prescriptions incompatible with Chandragupta's time.

What are the different names by which Chandragupta Maurya was known in Greco-Roman sources?

In Greco-Roman accounts, Chandragupta Maurya was known by names such as Sandrakottos, Sandrocottus, and Androcottus. These variations in spelling reflect the transliteration of his name into Greek and Latin.

What was the historical importance of William Jones's identification of 'Sandracottus' with Chandragupta Maurya?

Sir William Jones's proposal in 1793 that 'Sandracottus' from Greco-Roman sources was Chandragupta Maurya from Indian literature was crucial. This identification allowed historians to synchronize Indian and Greco-Roman timelines, providing a vital chronological anchor for ancient Indian history.

What does contemporary Greek evidence suggest about Chandragupta Maurya's religious practices?

Contemporary Greek evidence suggests that Chandragupta Maurya did not abstain from performing Vedic sacrifices that involved animal rites, and he did not adhere to the Jain practice of ahimsa (non-violence). This contrasts with later Jain legends that depict him as a follower of Jainism.

What was the political situation in Magadha around 350 BCE?

Around 350 BCE, Magadha, ruled by the Nanda dynasty, had emerged as the dominant power in the region following a period of internal conflict among the janapadas. This established kingdom was later overthrown by Chandragupta Maurya.

What actions did Alexander the Great take in the Northwest Indian subcontinent, and how did this relate to Chandragupta's rise?

Alexander the Great entered the Northwest Indian subcontinent in 325 BCE, but aborted his campaign due to troop mutiny and the prospect of facing the Nanda Empire. He left behind Greek governors in the conquered territories, which Chandragupta later confronted and overthrew, capitalizing on the resulting instability.

What are the differing accounts regarding Chandragupta Maurya's family background and origin?

Historical facts about Chandragupta's origins are scarce, with legends offering various accounts. Some suggest a connection to the Nanda dynasty through a concubine named Mura, leading to theories of a Shudra background. Buddhist texts claim a Kshatriya origin linked to Gautama Buddha's clan, while the name 'Maurya' is possibly derived from peacocks. The play Mudrarakshasa refers to him as being of humble origin.

How did Chanakya become associated with Chandragupta Maurya, according to various legends?

Legends describe Chanakya, a Brahmin and Chandragupta's mentor, playing a pivotal role in his life. Jain tradition suggests Chanakya adopted Chandragupta based on a prophecy, while Buddhist and Hindu legends depict Chanakya discovering the young Chandragupta, educating him at Taxila, and guiding his rise to power.

What role did the period after Alexander the Great's death play in Chandragupta's ascent?

After Alexander the Great's death in 323 BCE, the Greek governors he left in the Northwest Indian subcontinent faced assassinations and revolts. Chandragupta is credited with leading a revolt against these governors, liberating the region from Greek rule and subsequently establishing his own authority.

What is the significance of the 'Nandrum' versus 'Alexandrum' debate in Justin's historical account?

An early printed edition of Justin's work mistakenly read 'Alexandrum' (Alexander) instead of 'Nandrum' (Nanda king), leading to theories of a meeting between Chandragupta and Alexander. However, scholarly analysis confirms 'Nandrum' is the correct reading, indicating Justin's passage refers to Chandragupta's conflict with the Nanda king, not Alexander.

How did Chandragupta Maurya and Chanakya campaign against the Nanda Empire?

According to various accounts, after recruiting an army, Chandragupta, with Chanakya's guidance, waged war against the Nanda dynasty. They conquered Nanda territories, established garrisons, and then advanced on the capital, Pataliputra, eventually defeating the Nanda emperor, Dhana Nanda.

What are the differing accounts regarding the final confrontation with the Nanda emperor?

While Buddhist texts suggest an easy victory where the Nanda emperor was killed, Hindu and Jain texts describe a bitterly fought campaign due to the Nanda dynasty's strong army. These accounts state the Nanda emperor was defeated, deposed, and exiled, with Jain sources adding that his daughter married Chandragupta.

What was the nature of the alliance formed between Chandragupta Maurya and Seleucus I Nicator?

Between 305 and 303 BCE, Chandragupta Maurya and Seleucus I Nicator, founder of the Seleucid Empire, formed a dynastic marriage-alliance. Seleucus received 500 war elephants from Chandragupta, while Chandragupta gained control over territories bordering the Indus River.

What territories might have been ceded by Seleucus to Chandragupta as part of their alliance?

As part of the alliance, Seleucus likely ceded territories in the western Indus Valley, potentially including parts of Gedrosia (Balochistan), Paropamisadae (Gandhara, Kabul region), and possibly Arachosia (Kandahar). The exact extent of these acquired territories is debated among scholars.

Who was Megasthenes, and what was his role in Chandragupta Maurya's court?

Megasthenes was a Greek ambassador dispatched by Seleucus I Nicator to Chandragupta Maurya's court. He served as an ambassador for four years, and his writings provide valuable insights into Chandragupta's rule and the Maurya Empire, even though his original work is lost.

What evidence supports Chandragupta Maurya's rule over Gujarat?

Chandragupta Maurya's control over present-day Gujarat is supported by an inscription found in Junagadh, which mentions his governor, Vaishya Pushyagupta, commissioning the Sudarshana lake. This inscription also suggests Mauryan control over the Malwa region.

What do Digambara Jain accounts say about Chandragupta Maurya's later life?

According to Digambara Jain accounts, Chandragupta Maurya abdicated his throne at an early age, joined his spiritual mentor Bhadrabahu, and migrated to Shravanabelagola in southern Karnataka. There, he lived as an ascetic and eventually fasted to death through the practice of sallekhana.

What are the main discrepancies or issues with the Jain accounts of Chandragupta's renunciation?

The Digambara Jain accounts, developed centuries after Chandragupta's death, may confuse him with a later ruler, Samprati Chandragupta, or misidentify the monk Prabhacandra as Chandragupta Maurya. Svetambara Jain texts also contradict the Digambara narrative regarding Bhadrabahu's location and death.

What is uncertain regarding Chandragupta Maurya's conquests in Southern India?

There is uncertainty about the extent of Chandragupta Maurya's conquests, particularly in the Deccan region of southern India. While his grandson Ashoka's empire reached modern-day Karnataka, it is unclear whether these southern territories were conquered by Chandragupta or his son Bindusara.

What administrative reforms are attributed to Chandragupta Maurya and Chanakya?

Chandragupta Maurya and Chanakya are credited with implementing significant economic and political reforms, establishing a decentralized administration with provinces and local governments, and forming a council of ministers (mantriparishad) to advise the king.

How did Megasthenes describe the administrative structure of Chandragupta's empire?

Megasthenes described Chandragupta's rule as having three parallel administrative structures: one managing village affairs (irrigation, land ownership, forest laws), another overseeing city matters (trade, foreigners, markets, taxes), and a third responsible for the military. This indicates a sophisticated, albeit decentralized, system of governance.

What measures did Chandragupta Maurya's administration take to ensure his safety?

Concerned about assassination attempts, Chandragupta Maurya's administration, guided by Chanakya, implemented strategies such as frequently changing bedrooms and limiting his public appearances to specific tasks like military expeditions, court sessions, sacrifices, celebrations, and hunts, often with female guards.

What types of infrastructure projects were developed during Chandragupta Maurya's reign?

Chandragupta Maurya's empire developed a strong economy supported by infrastructure projects including irrigation reservoirs and networks, roads suitable for carts, mines, and manufacturing centers. These projects aimed to ensure food supplies, facilitate trade, and enable rapid troop movement across the vast empire.

What is the significance of the Junagadh rock inscription regarding infrastructure development?

The Junagadh rock inscription, dated around 150 CE, provides strong evidence of infrastructure development by stating that Rudradaman repaired and enlarged irrigation reservoirs and conduits originally built by Chandragupta and enhanced by Ashoka. This highlights the long-term impact of Mauryan public works.

What is the state of evidence regarding arts and architecture during Chandragupta's time?

Evidence for arts and architecture during Chandragupta's era is primarily derived from texts that imply the existence of cities and prosperous architecture. However, the historicity of these descriptions is debated, and most monumental carvings and inscriptions are attributed to his grandson Ashoka.

What religious traditions thrived during Chandragupta Maurya's reign and the Maurya Empire?

While Chandragupta himself sponsored Vedic sacrifices and Brahmanical rituals, his empire saw the prominence of Buddhism, Jainism, and Ajivika traditions alongside folk traditions. Minority religions like Zoroastrianism and the Greek pantheon were also respected, indicating a period of religious diversity.

Who succeeded Chandragupta Maurya as the emperor of the Maurya Empire?

Chandragupta Maurya was succeeded by his son, Bindusara, who continued the Maurya dynasty's rule and expanded the empire further.

What was the general perception of the Nanda dynasty, according to historical texts?

Historical texts, particularly Brahmanical ones, often describe the Nanda king as cruel, against dharma and shastras, and of questionable lineage, suggesting he usurped the throne. This unpopularity is cited as a factor that facilitated Chandragupta's rebellion against them.

What role did war elephants play in the relationship between Chandragupta and Seleucus?

Chandragupta Maurya provided 500 war elephants to Seleucus I Nicator, which proved crucial in Seleucus's victory at the Battle of Ipsus. This military contribution highlights the strategic importance of the alliance between the two rulers.

How did Chandragupta's officers collect taxes, according to Strabo?

According to Strabo, Chandragupta's officers included assessors who were responsible for collecting taxes on commercial activity and trade goods. This indicates a system for generating revenue from economic transactions within the empire.

What miraculous incidents did Justin narrate as omens related to Chandragupta's fate?

Justin narrated two miraculous incidents: a large lion licking Chandragupta while he slept after escaping the Nanda king, and a wild elephant offering itself as a steed to Chandragupta before a battle against Alexander's generals. These stories were interpreted as divine omens of his future greatness.

Why did Alexander the Great abort his Indian campaign in 325 BCE?

Alexander the Great aborted his Indian campaign in 325 BCE due to a mutiny among his troops, caused by the prospect of facing another large empire, presumed to be the Nanda Empire, and the general desire among his soldiers to return home.

What geographical discrepancy exists in some Digambara Jain accounts regarding Chandragupta's migration?

Some late Digambara Jain inscriptions and texts mention Chandragupta's journey starting from Ujjain, rather than Pataliputra, which is a geographical difference from other accounts and legends. This variation raises questions about the specific historical Chandragupta referenced in these texts.

What do Tamil Sangam literature poems suggest about the Maurya Empire?

Poems in the Tamil Sangam literature corpus allude to the Maurya Empire and its armies, and may reference the Nanda dynasty. However, these poems do not explicitly name Chandragupta Maurya and could potentially refer to a different Maurya dynasty in the Deccan region.

What is the name of the Sanskrit play by Vishakhadatta that depicts Chandragupta's era?

The Sanskrit play by Vishakhadatta that depicts Chandragupta's era is called Mudrarakshasa, meaning 'The Signet Ring of Rakshasa.' It is a political drama composed centuries after Chandragupta's reign.

In which video game does Chandragupta Maurya appear as a playable leader?

Chandragupta Maurya appears as a playable leader for the Indian civilization in the 2016 video game Civilization VI. This inclusion reflects his historical significance as a major ruler.

What was the initial belief about the Arthasastra's origin and its relation to Chandragupta's reign?

It was initially believed that the Arthasastra, a treatise on statecraft, was written by Chandragupta's minister Chanakya and applied during Chandragupta's reign. However, current scholarly consensus suggests the Arthasastra is not of Mauryan origin and contains prescriptions incompatible with Chandragupta's time.

What memorials exist for Chandragupta Maurya?

A memorial to Chandragupta Maurya is located on Chandragiri hill in Shravanabelagola, Karnataka. Additionally, the Indian Postal Service issued a commemorative postage stamp honoring him in 2001, recognizing his historical importance.

What is the significance of the 'Vrishala' title mentioned in the Mudrarakshasa?

The title 'Vrishala' used in the Mudrarakshasa for Chandragupta has two meanings: 'son of a Shudra' or 'the best of kings.' While one interpretation suggests a Shudra background, historians like Radha Kumud Mukherjee argue it should be understood as a term of high praise, meaning 'the best of kings'.

What evidence suggests Chandragupta Maurya's control over the Malwa region?

The Junagadh rock inscription, which details Chandragupta's rule over Gujarat, also suggests his control over the Malwa region in Central India. This region lies geographically between Gujarat and his capital, Pataliputra.

How did Chandragupta's empire build a strong economy?

Chandragupta's empire built a strong economy through solid infrastructure, including irrigation systems, mines, and roads, which facilitated trade and agriculture. The state also maintained a monopoly over weapon manufacturing centers while encouraging private parties to operate mines.

What is the primary Jain source for the legend of Chandragupta?

The primary Jain source for the legend of Chandragupta is the 12th-century text Parishishtaparvan by Hemachandra, which details his life and Chanakya's influence, though it was written nearly 1,400 years after Chandragupta's death.

What was the role of Chanakya in Chandragupta's administration?

Chanakya served as Chandragupta's chief minister and advisor, playing a crucial role in the administration, economic policies, and ensuring Chandragupta's safety. His strategic counsel was instrumental in the formation and consolidation of the Maurya Empire.

What evidence exists for Chandragupta Maurya's infrastructure projects related to irrigation?

Epigraphical evidence, particularly the Junagadh rock inscription of Rudradaman, suggests that Chandragupta, with Chanakya's counsel, initiated and completed many irrigation reservoirs and networks across the Indian subcontinent. This practice was continued by his successors.

How did Chandragupta Maurya's reign contribute to the expansion of Buddhism?

While Chandragupta himself sponsored Vedic sacrifices, his grandson Ashoka, a devout Buddhist, significantly expanded Buddhism. The stability and infrastructure established by Chandragupta's empire laid the groundwork for Ashoka's later religious policies and the subsequent spread of Buddhism.

Chandragupta Maurya

Architect of an Empire: Unveiling the foundational reign of India's first great emperor, from humble beginnings to imperial dominion.

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The Founder

First Emperor

Chandragupta Maurya (reigned c. 320 BCE – c. 297 BCE) was the founder and first emperor of the Maurya Empire, establishing his rule from Magadha in the Indian subcontinent.¹² His ascent marked the end of the Nanda dynasty and the beginning of a unified imperial era in India.

Uncertain Origins

Historical accounts of Chandragupta's early life and origins are scarce and often contradictory, relying on legends from Greek, Roman, Buddhist, and Jain traditions, many compiled centuries after his death.³⁴ This lack of contemporary evidence makes precise details about his birth and youth a subject of scholarly debate.

Rise Amidst Unrest

Chandragupta's rise to power is closely linked to the period of instability following Alexander the Great's Indian campaign and subsequent death in 323 BCE. He capitalized on the ensuing power vacuum and local conflicts to challenge the Nanda dynasty and consolidate his authority.

Historical Sources

Greco-Roman Accounts

Early Greek and Roman writers, such as Strabo, Arrian, Justin, and Plutarch, provide fragmented but crucial insights into Chandragupta's era. These accounts, though written centuries later, mention his confrontations with Greek governors in India and his interactions with Alexander the Great, offering valuable chronological anchors.⁵⁶

Indian Traditions

Brahmanical, Buddhist, and Jain religious texts offer extensive narratives about Chandragupta, often intertwining historical events with legendary elements. These sources, including the Puranas, Mahavamsa, and Hemachandra's Parishishtaparvan, describe his lineage, his relationship with Chanakya, and his eventual renunciation, though details vary significantly.⁴⁷

Synchronizing Chronologies

The identification of Chandragupta Maurya with the Greco-Roman figure "Sandracottus" by Sir William Jones in the late 18th century was pivotal. This linkage allowed historians to synchronize Indian chronology with established Western timelines, providing a framework for dating this significant period of Indian history.⁸

Biography

Reign and Dates

Chandragupta Maurya's reign is conventionally dated from approximately 320/319 BCE to 297 BCE. However, the precise chronology of his rise to power and the sequence of his campaigns, particularly in the Punjab and against the Nanda dynasty, remain subjects of scholarly discussion.²

Names and Titles

Known in Greco-Roman sources as Sandrakottos or Androcottus, Chandragupta also bore epithets such as Chandra-shri and Priya-darshana, the latter being similar to an epithet used by his grandson, Ashoka.⁹ The term "Vrishala" is also associated with him, interpreted variously as indicating humble origins or royal status.

Religious Affiliations

While contemporary Greek accounts suggest Chandragupta engaged in Vedic Brahminical practices, including animal sacrifice and hunting, later Jain traditions depict him as a follower of Jainism, who renounced his throne and died through ascetic fasting (sallekhana) in Shravanabelagola.¹⁰¹¹ The historicity of his conversion to Jainism is debated among scholars.

The Influence of Chanakya

Chandragupta's mentor and chief minister, Chanakya (also known as Kautilya), played a pivotal role in his rise to power. Legends portray Chanakya as a strategist who guided Chandragupta in military campaigns, statecraft, and administration, shaping the foundations of the Maurya Empire.¹²¹³

The Ascent to Power

Punjab Campaigns

Following Alexander the Great's withdrawal and the subsequent assassination of Greek governors, Chandragupta emerged as a leader in the Punjab region. He is believed to have recruited soldiers and possibly allied with local military republics to challenge the remaining Greek presence and consolidate his power base.¹⁴¹⁵

Overthrow of the Nandas

With Chanakya's counsel, Chandragupta launched a campaign against the Nanda dynasty, whose rule in Magadha was characterized by unpopularity and perceived injustice. After a series of conflicts, Chandragupta successfully defeated the Nanda king, Dhana Nanda, and seized the capital city of Pataliputra, thereby establishing the Maurya Empire.¹⁶¹⁷

Alliance with Seleucus

Around 305–303 BCE, Chandragupta engaged in a diplomatic and military confrontation with Seleucus I Nicator, the founder of the Seleucid Empire. This encounter culminated in a dynastic marriage alliance, wherein Seleucus ceded territories west of the Indus, possibly including parts of modern Afghanistan, in exchange for five hundred war elephants from Chandragupta.¹⁸¹⁹

The Maurya Empire

Administration and Governance

Chandragupta established a structured, albeit decentralized, administration. The empire was organized into provinces, supported by a council of ministers (mantriparishad) and a chief minister, Chanakya. His rule emphasized law and order, with officials overseeing villages and cities, and a low crime rate reported by contemporary observers like Megasthenes.²⁰²¹

Infrastructure Development

The empire fostered economic growth through significant infrastructure projects. This included the construction and maintenance of irrigation systems, roads, mines, and trade networks. A notable achievement was the development of a major highway connecting Pataliputra to Taxila, facilitating trade and military movement across the subcontinent.²²²³

Arts and Architecture

While direct archaeological evidence from Chandragupta's reign is limited, textual sources suggest the existence of prosperous architecture and significant artisanal achievements. Discoveries like the Didarganj Yakshi, though debated in dating, hint at the sophisticated artistic traditions of the period, possibly influenced by Greek and West Asian styles or indigenous Indian heritage.²⁴

Economic Policies

Chandragupta and Chanakya implemented policies aimed at economic prosperity, including state monopolies on mines and weapons manufacturing, while encouraging private enterprise. The administration focused on ensuring food security through irrigation projects and maintaining a strong military, prepared for defense through diplomacy and strategic planning.²⁵

Enduring Legacy

Unification of India

Chandragupta Maurya is revered for unifying a vast swathe of the Indian subcontinent under a single imperial rule, laying the groundwork for subsequent empires. His reign initiated an era of economic stability, administrative reforms, and cultural synthesis.²⁶

Foundation of Maurya Dynasty

He established the Maurya dynasty, which reached its zenith under his grandson, Ashoka the Great. The administrative and political structures initiated by Chandragupta provided a lasting framework for governance in ancient India.²⁷

National Recognition

Chandragupta Maurya's historical significance is recognized through various memorials, including a site on Chandragiri hill in Karnataka, and a commemorative postage stamp issued by the Indian Postal Service in 2001.²⁸²⁹

In Popular Culture

Literary Depictions

Chandragupta's life and reign have inspired numerous literary works, including the Sanskrit play Mudrarakshasa by Vishakhadatta, Bengali dramas, and historical novels that explore his relationship with Chanakya and the founding of his empire.³⁰

Cinematic and Television Portrayals

His story has been adapted into several Indian films, both silent and sound, across various languages. Television series have also depicted his life, often focusing on his strategic alliance with Chanakya and his imperial ambitions.³¹³²

Modern Media

Chandragupta Maurya has also found representation in modern media, including being featured as a playable leader in the video game Civilization VI, reflecting his enduring status as a significant historical figure.³³

Notes and References

Scholarly References

The information presented is derived from a synthesis of historical texts, including Greco-Roman accounts and Indian traditions. The dating and specific events of Chandragupta's life are subject to ongoing scholarly interpretation due to the nature of the available sources.²

Detailed notes on the sources and interpretations:

^ ^a ^b See also Maurya Empire, network model.
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e
The western extent is disputed.
Gedrosia and Kandahar
- Kosmin (2014, p. 33): "Seleucus transferred to Chandragupta's kingdom the easternmost satrapies of his empire, certainly Gandhara, Parapamisadae [Kabul], and the eastern parts of Gedrosia, and possibly also Arachosia [Kandahar] and Aria as far as Herat."
- Kosmin (2014, p. 277): "The discovery in Kandahar of two royal edicts issued by Chandragupta's famous grandson, Ashoka, confirming Mauryan possession of Arachosia, at least by the mid-third century; [...] in the absence of evidence of later Mauryan expansion and with the friendly relations maintained between the two kingdoms (see later), the most economical explanation is that Seleucus ceded the region of Kandahar, but the state of our evidence obliges caution."
Parapamisadae (Kabul) and Arachosia (Kandahar)
- Tarn (1922, p. 100) and Coningham & Young (2015, pp. 452–453) have questioned the inclusion of eastern Afghanistan (Kabul-Kandahar). Coningham & Young (2015, p. 452) note that "a growing number of researchers would now agree that the Ashokan edicts may have represented 'an area of maximum contact rather than streamlined bureacrayic control'."
Gedrosia:
- Smith (1914, p. 149): "The satrapy of Gedrosia (or Gadrosia) extended far to the west, and probably only the eastern part of it was annexed by Chandragupta. The Malin range of mountains,[c] which Alexander experienced such difficulty in crossing, would have furnished a natural boundary."
- Tarn (1922, p. 100): "In Gedrosia the boundary is known: the country ceded was that between the Median Hydaspes (probably the Purali[e]) and the Indus."
Gujarat
- Chakrabarty (2010, p. 29): "We are assuming that the basic historical-geographical configuration of the Magadhan power was achieved before the beginning of the Maurya dynasty, whose founder Chandragupta Maurya simply added to it the stretch from the Indus valley to the southern foot of the Hindukush, giving the Mauryan India a strong foothold in the Oxus to the Indus interaction zone of Indian history. The evidence is in some cases, as in the cases of Gujarat, Bengal, and Assam, shadowy, but if Chandragupta had undertaken expeditions in these directions, there would have been echoes of these expeditions in the literary traditions."
Aria (Herat)
- Raychaudhuri & Mukherjee (1997, p. 594):"[Aria] has been wrongly included in the list of ceded satrapies by some scholars [...] on the basis of wrong assessments of the passage of Strabo [...] and a statement by Pliny."
- Grainger (2014, p. 109): "Seleucus "must [...] have held Aria", and furthermore, his "son Antiochos was active there fifteen years later."
- Sherwin-White & Kuhrt (1993, pp. 79–80): "The region of Aria is definitely known to have been Seleucid under Seleucus I and Antiochus I as it definitely was after Antiochus III's great campaign in the east against the Parthians and Bactrians. [...] There is no evidence whatever that it did not remain Seleucid, like Drangiana, with which it is linked by easy routes."
- "For more than a century, the Seleucids remained in control of the [Drangiana] region. [...] Drangiana was conquered by the Parthians." [1].
^ See also Mauryan Empire, solid mass.
^ Sanskrit: चन्द्रगुप्त मौर्य IAST: Candragupta Maurya; Pali: चन्दगುತ್ತ मोरिय, Chandagutta Moriya; Ancient Greek: Σανδράκοττος, Sandrácottos, Σανδράκοττος, Sandrácottos, Ανδρόκοττος, Andrócottos
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f
Dating: like his other dates, the date of Chandragupta's ascencion of the throne is uncertain. Jansari (2023, p. 18): "...widely, and casually, accepted that Chandragupta came to power in c.320/319 bc. However, all of the information concerning Chandragupta’s rise to power and the dates of his reign must be treated with caution: the evidence, such as it is, is based on limited and problematic Graeco-Roman and South Asian sources, little of the content of which is contemporary with the events they report." Chandragupta's conquest of the Punjab happened after a prolonged period of unrest and warfare, and, synchronized with Greek history, happened around 317 BCE (Jansari 2023, p. 17). Jansari, admitting that c.320/319 BCE is the date conventionally accepted by most scholars, follows Cribb in re-assessing Justin (XV section 4.12-22), who states that Chandragupta’s became "'ruler of India' when Seleucus was 'laying the foundations' of his own empire." According to Jansari, "this reference appears to refer to the period c.311– c.308 bc," implying that "Chandragupta gained power, and was possibly already the first Mauryan king, between c.311 and c.305 bc" (Jansari 2023, pp. 30–31)
- Jansari (2023, pp. 17–18): "Most scholars assert that Chandragupta’s arrival here came after his overthrow of the Nanda dynasty and his establishment of his own dynasty in its place. This timing, however, like many other aspects of Chandragupta’s reign, remains uncertain, and some scholars have also suggested that Chandragupta’s activities in the region preceded the foundation of the Mauryan empire. [note 15] The inconclusive and problematic evidence for Chandragupta’s life and events means that either interpretation is possible."
- Jansari (2023, p. 36, note 15): "The commentary alongside this section of Justin in Yardley, Wheatley and Heckel (2011, 278–9) provides a good overview of the arguments, from those put forward by scholars writing in the early nineteenth century to those of recent decades, in relation to the timing of Chandragupta’s arrival in the region before or after he took the Nanda throne."
- Jansari (2023, pp. 29–30): "According to Justin, it was around the time that Eudamus murdered Porus and travelled west, c.317 bc, that Chandragupta first entered the Punjab [...] It is also not clear how long Chandragupta had been in power at this stage. While some scholars have argued that he was still in the process of challenging Nanda supremacy, the general consensus at present, with a few exceptions couched in tentative language, is that he had already established his own dynasty. [note 67 ]"
- Jansari (2023, p. p.38, note 67): "Just. Epit. 14.4.12–14. Trans. J. C. Yardley. Yardley, Wheatley and Heckel (2011, 278–9) provide a good overview of the way the scholarship falls on both sides of the debate. Singh (2008, 330) suggests the possibility that Chandragupta was in the process of empire-building when he arrived in the Punjab at this time."
^ Fisher (2018, p. 71): "Chandragupta (r. 320 – c. 298 BCE) led a rebellion that seized power in Magadha and founded the Maurya Dynasty. He located his capital Pataliputra (today’s Patna) at an especially strategic trading and defensive location, on the south bank of the Ganges where the Son River joined it. The actual origins of the Maurya family remain uncertain, but consensus holds that Chandragupta was low-born. One popular account asserts he was the previous king’s son by a low-ranked queen or concubine and overthrew his royal half-brothers. Maurya means “peacock,” and some Jain texts identify his family as low peacock herders, ranked by Brahmans as Shudra at best.
^ ^a ^b Boesche (2003), referring to Radha Kumud Mookerji, Chandragupta Maurya and His Times, 4th ed. (Delhi: Motilal Ba
^ According to the Mudrarakshasa, the king's epithets included "Chanda-siri" (Chandra-shri), "Piadamsana" (Priya-darshana), and Vrishala. Piadamsana is similar to Priyadasi, an epithet of his grandson Ashoka.
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g ^h ⁱ Wiley (2009, pp. 50–52): "The Digambara Jain accounts are recorded in the Brihakathā kośa (931 CE) of Harishena, Bhadrabāhu charita (1450 CE) of Ratnanandi, Munivaṃśa bhyudaya (1680 CE) and Rajavali kathe. [...] The Svetambaras texts describe Bhadrabahu was based near Nepalese foothills of the Himalayas in third-century BCE, who neither moved nor travelled with Chandragupta Maurya to the south; rather, he died near Patliputra, according to the Svetambara Jains."
^ Buddhist texts, written centuries later, claim Chandragupta and his grandson Ashoka were "Moriyas," descendants of the Shakya clan of Gautama Buddha.
^ Jansari (2023, pp. 69–70): "William Jones's discovery [...] was of vital importance [...] it meant, for the first time, that Indian and Graeco-Roman history could be synchronised and dates assigned to this period of ancient Indian history."
^ Legends about Chanakya couple him to Chandragupta, acting as his mentor and spiritual teacher.
^ After defeating the Greeks, Chandragupta and Chanakya revolted against the unpopular Nandas, conquering territories and advancing on Pataliputra.
^ With the defeat of Dhana Nanda, Chandragupta Maurya founded the Maurya Empire.
^ Mookerji refers to McCrindle stating that "robbers" refers to the people of the Punjab, "kingless people." Mookerju further quotes Rhys Davids, who states that "it was from the Punjab that Chandragupta recruited the nucleus of the force with which he besieged and conquered Dhana-Nanda."
^ Raychaudhuri states that, according to Justin Epitome 15.4.18–19, Chandragupta organized an army.
^ Mookerji states they conquered Pataliputra deploying guerrilla warfare methods.
^ Mudrarakshasa is a political drama composed between 300 CE and 700 CE.
^ Chanakya's role in the formation of the Maurya Empire is the essence of a historical/spiritual novel The Courtesan and the Sadhu by Dr. Mysore N. Prakash.
^ In 2011, a television series called Chandragupta Maurya was telecast on Imagine TV.
^ In the 2016 video game Civilization VI, Chandragupta is a playable leader for the Indian civilization.
^ ^a Buddhism, Jainism and Ājīvika gained prominence prevailing over Vedic and Brahmanistic traditions.
^ The Maurya Empire reached its peak under Ashoka the Great.
^ A memorial to Chandragupta exists on Chandragiri hill in Shravanabelagola, Karnataka.
^ The Indian Postal Service issued a commemorative postage stamp honouring Chandragupta Maurya in 2001.
^ Mudrarakshasa was composed 600 years after the conquest of Chandragupta.
^ Chanakya's role in the formation of the Maurya Empire is the essence of a historical/spiritual novel The Courtesan and the Sadhu by Dr. Mysore N. Prakash.
^ In 2011, a television series called Chandragupta Maurya was telecast on Imagine TV.
^ In the 2016 video game Civilization VI, Chandragupta is a playable leader for the Indian civilization.

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Chandragupta Maurya

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The Founder 👑

👑 First Emperor

📜 Uncertain Origins

⚔️ Rise Amidst Unrest

Historical Sources 📜

🏛️ Greco-Roman Accounts

🕉️ Indian Traditions

🔗 Synchronizing Chronologies

Biography 👤

📅 Reign and Dates

🗣️ Names and Titles

🧘 Religious Affiliations

🧠 The Influence of Chanakya

The Ascent to Power ⚔️

🗺️ Punjab Campaigns

💥 Overthrow of the Nandas

🤝 Alliance with Seleucus

The Maurya Empire 🏛️

⚙️ Administration and Governance

🛣️ Infrastructure Development

🎨 Arts and Architecture

⚖️ Economic Policies

Enduring Legacy 🌟

🌍 Unification of India

🏛️ Foundation of Maurya Dynasty

commemorative National Recognition

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The Founder

First Emperor

Uncertain Origins

Rise Amidst Unrest

Historical Sources

Greco-Roman Accounts

Indian Traditions

Synchronizing Chronologies

Biography

Reign and Dates

Names and Titles

Religious Affiliations

The Influence of Chanakya

The Ascent to Power

Punjab Campaigns

Overthrow of the Nandas

Alliance with Seleucus

The Maurya Empire

Administration and Governance

Infrastructure Development

Arts and Architecture

Economic Policies

Enduring Legacy

Unification of India

Foundation of Maurya Dynasty

National Recognition

In Popular Culture

Literary Depictions

Cinematic and Television Portrayals

Modern Media

Notes and References

Scholarly References

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice