Mauryan Biography
Samantapasadika: Ashoka and the Avanti Annexation
The Samantapāsādikā of Buddhaghosa is the text that refers to Ashoka's governance and annexation of Avanti during his father Bindusara's reign.
Primary Reference: Pali Chronicles - Samantapasadika
Archived:
Updated:
Exam Year
2020
Evidence Source
Link ↗Ashoka won the Avanti Mahajapad and merged it in the Mauryan empire during Bindusara rule. What text does it refer to?
[M.P.P.C.S. (Pre.) 2020]
Detailed Solution & Historical Context
Concept
Buddhist literature provides rich biographical details of Ashoka's early life before he became the emperor.
Authentic Source Evidence
The Samantapāsādikā, a commentary by Buddhaghosa, mentions that Ashoka served as the Viceroy of Avanti (Ujjain) and successfully governed the region during the reign of his father, Bindusara.
Analytical Breakdown
Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic
"Where was Ashoka serving when his father Bindusara died?"
He was serving as the Viceroy of Ujjain, the capital of Avanti, which was a crucial strategic province.
Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip
"Ashoka's experience in Avanti was vital to his subsequent victory in the Mauryan war of succession, as it gave him a power base independent of Pataliputra."
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