Question

What was the effect of kalinga war on Ashoka?

Answer 1

Instructions: Divide the answer into the following points:

Why did Ashoka attack Kalinga?

• To control of trade routes to south India and Southeast Asia.

What was the significant event of Battle of Kalinga?

• Severe damage to life and property.

How did the Battle of Kalinga affect Ashoka?

• He resolved not to wage war and adopted Buddhism.

Solution:

• Kalinga (Odisha) was an important kingdom as it controlled the land and sea trade routes to south India and Southeast Asia. Ashoka realised the importance of Kalinga and attempted to capture it. The conquest of this kingdom was horrifying and a hundred and fifty thousand people were deported, a hundred thousand were killed and several died. Ashoka surrendered his weapons and became a follower of Upagupta. He adopted Buddhism and the policy of ahimsa or non- violence. Ashoka’s 13th rock edict expresses his feelings after destroying Kalinga. He repented deeply and tried hard to make up for the suffering he caused.