The Kalinga War and Ashoka's Turn to Peace
Dhauli hills, near Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India (presumed battle site)
What happened
Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan Empire sent his army to conquer Kalinga, a rich kingdom on India's east coast with busy ports. According to Ashoka's own edicts, the war was finished in the eighth year of his reign, probably in 261 BCE. Seeing the suffering it caused, Ashoka promised never again to fight a war of conquest.
Why it matters
Ashoka turned toward what he called Dharma: a way of ruling based on care for others. The Kalinga War was the only major war he fought after becoming emperor. It was one of the largest wars in Indian history.
What came next
Ashoka had his message carved on rocks and pillars for people to read. Historians treat these edicts as his own words about the war and its regret.
Did you know?
In 1972 a white Peace Pagoda was built on the Dhauli hills, the place many think the war was fought. The exact battlefield is presumed, not proven.
Timeline
- About 261 BCEIn the eighth year of his reign, Ashoka conquers Kalinga.
- After the warAshoka pledges never again to wage a war of conquest.
- 1972 CEA Peace Pagoda is built on the Dhauli hills.