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The Mauryas: Chandragupta to Ashoka: The Backstories, The Sagas, The Legacies
From c . 324 BCE to c. 185 BCE, the Mauryas controlled almost the entire Indian subcontinent with efficiency and administrative finesse. Beginning with the origins of Magadha in the sixth century BCE, this definitive book on the Mauryas captures the drama, the colourful betrayals and the intrigues of the Mauryan dynasty in Magadha, starting with its enigmatic founder, Chandragupta Maurya, and his even more enigmatic mentor, Chanakya/ Kautilya, who helped him to get the throne.
Chandragupta’s son and heir, Bindusara, is an extremely shadowy, elusive figure in the historical narrative of the Mauryas. Sandwiched between his well-known father and his even more well-known son, Ashoka, Bindusara has slipped through the cracks of known history. Yet the little bits of evidence that we glean about him from varied sources suggest a ruler of power and foresight. A man of eclectic and whimsical tastes, even, who ensured that his heir would inherit a vaster empire than he did.
Ashoka, Bindusara’s son, was not only the most powerful Mauryan ruler but also one of the best-known monarchs in Indian history. There are several wildly imaginative tales that document his transition from Ashoka the Fierce to Ashoka the Contrite, consequent on the battle of Kalinga in c. 261 BCE where, horrified at the bloodshed, he underwent a radical personal and spiritual transformation and documented this fact all over his empire through inscriptions on pillars and rocks that have endured till today—a brilliant, pioneering method of communication.
An incisive wit and humour makes Devika Rangachari’s The Mauryas sparkle even when it is disentangling grave accounts of significant battles or tedious details of city planning. Culling details from secular and religious literary traditions, Graeco-Roman accounts and archaeological evidence to elucidate this lesser-known period of our ancient past, The Mauryas concludes with an analysis of the enduring legacy of this remarkable dynasty and its strong resonances in our present.
Chandragupta’s son and heir, Bindusara, is an extremely shadowy, elusive figure in the historical narrative of the Mauryas. Sandwiched between his well-known father and his even more well-known son, Ashoka, Bindusara has slipped through the cracks of known history. Yet the little bits of evidence that we glean about him from varied sources suggest a ruler of power and foresight. A man of eclectic and whimsical tastes, even, who ensured that his heir would inherit a vaster empire than he did.
Ashoka, Bindusara’s son, was not only the most powerful Mauryan ruler but also one of the best-known monarchs in Indian history. There are several wildly imaginative tales that document his transition from Ashoka the Fierce to Ashoka the Contrite, consequent on the battle of Kalinga in c. 261 BCE where, horrified at the bloodshed, he underwent a radical personal and spiritual transformation and documented this fact all over his empire through inscriptions on pillars and rocks that have endured till today—a brilliant, pioneering method of communication.
An incisive wit and humour makes Devika Rangachari’s The Mauryas sparkle even when it is disentangling grave accounts of significant battles or tedious details of city planning. Culling details from secular and religious literary traditions, Graeco-Roman accounts and archaeological evidence to elucidate this lesser-known period of our ancient past, The Mauryas concludes with an analysis of the enduring legacy of this remarkable dynasty and its strong resonances in our present.
- GenresNonfictionHistoryIndia
301 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 13, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
March 4, 2023
I Liked the The Mauryas, but I was also left quite frustrated about a few things in the book. Devika Rangachari's first historical genre book for adults is clearly well researched. Her depth of knowledge of the subject is immense and she also frequently quotes and gives credits to other historians for ideas being presented.
However, she swings wildly in the tone of the book. On the one end she is clearly trying to be a true-blue history writer, by adding references and citation to every sentence. On the other end though, she is also trying to make the book more layman friendly, by explaining what was explained and then explaining that once again sake good order, just in case someone is not paying attention.
There are a few other problems. Devika is clearly from the Romila Thapar school, whilst that in itself is not a problem, some of the terms she used constantly, such as Brahminism, are perhaps outdated with modern Indian historians, who prefer to refer to terms such as Early Hinduism or Vedic Hinduism etc. Some would also argue that The term Brahminism can also be considered inappropriate, not just outdated, because it would suggest that Hinduism is primarily the religion of the Brahmins, which is not accurate, and does not recognize the diversity of the religion with many different traditions, practices, and beliefs, and it is not limited to one particular caste or group.
Furthermore, the term Brahminism is also considered outdated because it was used in colonial times to describe Hinduism as a whole, and it carried a connotation of Orientalism and Eurocentrism. Leading more recent scholars to move away from such terms.
I was led to this book by a friendly shop keeper in Chennai - Words & Worth's, when he suggested that it wood be a good follow up to Lords of the Deccan, which I had read recently and enjoyed immensely. Overall, glad to have added this to my collection, and I will be looking out for Devika's next effort, hoping for an even better effort at covering another period in Indian History.
However, she swings wildly in the tone of the book. On the one end she is clearly trying to be a true-blue history writer, by adding references and citation to every sentence. On the other end though, she is also trying to make the book more layman friendly, by explaining what was explained and then explaining that once again sake good order, just in case someone is not paying attention.
There are a few other problems. Devika is clearly from the Romila Thapar school, whilst that in itself is not a problem, some of the terms she used constantly, such as Brahminism, are perhaps outdated with modern Indian historians, who prefer to refer to terms such as Early Hinduism or Vedic Hinduism etc. Some would also argue that The term Brahminism can also be considered inappropriate, not just outdated, because it would suggest that Hinduism is primarily the religion of the Brahmins, which is not accurate, and does not recognize the diversity of the religion with many different traditions, practices, and beliefs, and it is not limited to one particular caste or group.
Furthermore, the term Brahminism is also considered outdated because it was used in colonial times to describe Hinduism as a whole, and it carried a connotation of Orientalism and Eurocentrism. Leading more recent scholars to move away from such terms.
I was led to this book by a friendly shop keeper in Chennai - Words & Worth's, when he suggested that it wood be a good follow up to Lords of the Deccan, which I had read recently and enjoyed immensely. Overall, glad to have added this to my collection, and I will be looking out for Devika's next effort, hoping for an even better effort at covering another period in Indian History.
August 18, 2023
A scholarly work on the most illustrious dynasty in Indian history that is also a page turner!
Devika Rangachari’s The Mauryas roundly busts the myth that historical facts are always musty and dry and usually unpalatable to the lay reader. This book will keep you in splits even as you assimilate a fascinating range of facts about the legendary Mauryas—Chandragupta, Bindusara and the great Ashoka.
Devika is well-known as the author of several award-winning children’s books, many of which have introduced both known and less known personalities from Indian history to youngsters in an engaging manner. These include her popular Queens series and her latest brilliant offering, The Train to Tanjore, set during the freedom struggle.
The Mauryas is for all ages of readers and displays the depth and range of Devika’s scholarship as a historian even as it keeps the reader hooked with its irreverent approach and chatty style. It may sound unbelievable that the two can co-exist but she has managed it with the consummate skill of a gifted storyteller, while illuminating little known facets of history. Chandragupta and Ashoka are historical superstars but the man who came in between—Bindusara, has for some reason remained practically faceless to lay readers. This book fills in this blank by resurrecting the personality of the Maurya who is not as celebrated as his empire building father or his immensely charismatic son. Again, a particular image of Ashoka the Great has been imprinted in our minds via our history textbooks. Here, the author reveals and analyses the complexities of his personality as an ambitious and ruthless man who later turned to religion.
And of course, there is Chanakya/Kautilya, the guru-kingmaker whose towering presence hovers over the progress of these stellar personalities, even while we receive insights into his influential treatise on statecraft, the Arthashastra. There are intriguing titbits too, about lesser-known contemporaries of the Mauryas and importantly, the women influencers who are often overlooked in conventional annals of the past
In the same humorous vein, Devika also reveals the tortuous process of historical research—the painstaking sifting of information, the bewildering mix of myth, embroidery and possible facts that confronts a historian.
There is so much more I can say about this remarkable book, but I suggest you read it to experience this unique and entertaining account of an iconic dynasty.
Devika Rangachari’s The Mauryas roundly busts the myth that historical facts are always musty and dry and usually unpalatable to the lay reader. This book will keep you in splits even as you assimilate a fascinating range of facts about the legendary Mauryas—Chandragupta, Bindusara and the great Ashoka.
Devika is well-known as the author of several award-winning children’s books, many of which have introduced both known and less known personalities from Indian history to youngsters in an engaging manner. These include her popular Queens series and her latest brilliant offering, The Train to Tanjore, set during the freedom struggle.
The Mauryas is for all ages of readers and displays the depth and range of Devika’s scholarship as a historian even as it keeps the reader hooked with its irreverent approach and chatty style. It may sound unbelievable that the two can co-exist but she has managed it with the consummate skill of a gifted storyteller, while illuminating little known facets of history. Chandragupta and Ashoka are historical superstars but the man who came in between—Bindusara, has for some reason remained practically faceless to lay readers. This book fills in this blank by resurrecting the personality of the Maurya who is not as celebrated as his empire building father or his immensely charismatic son. Again, a particular image of Ashoka the Great has been imprinted in our minds via our history textbooks. Here, the author reveals and analyses the complexities of his personality as an ambitious and ruthless man who later turned to religion.
And of course, there is Chanakya/Kautilya, the guru-kingmaker whose towering presence hovers over the progress of these stellar personalities, even while we receive insights into his influential treatise on statecraft, the Arthashastra. There are intriguing titbits too, about lesser-known contemporaries of the Mauryas and importantly, the women influencers who are often overlooked in conventional annals of the past
In the same humorous vein, Devika also reveals the tortuous process of historical research—the painstaking sifting of information, the bewildering mix of myth, embroidery and possible facts that confronts a historian.
There is so much more I can say about this remarkable book, but I suggest you read it to experience this unique and entertaining account of an iconic dynasty.
October 20, 2023
For any history related book, a non-fiction account probably need to be very academic, with heavy citations with the other extreme being a historical fiction which can be richly narrated, and bringing the characters alive which creates a gap for any reader who wants to read an authentic account without the heavy, textbook tone. This is the exact gap which the author Devika Rangachari has tried to fill and does it relatively well, by keeping the tone light while still being historically accurate.
The author captures the life of the Mauryas starting from the rise of Magadha in the 6th Century BCE, to Bimbisara-Ajatshatru, the Nandas, and the 3 main Mauryas- Chandragupta, Bindusara, Ashok with the wily Kautilya or Chanaka in tow and finally the aftermath. The author also covers different aspects of the Mauryan Empire including the structures, administration pattern etc.
The author tries to build a cohesive and engaging narrative pieces together the different elements from the Buddhist, Jainist and Puranic sources and the corresponding modern authors while pointing out the contradictions and fancifulness for some of the stories. The narrative largely remains lucid, readable and satisfies the intent of the book to provide an good introduction to the Mauryas. The author does tackles the questions regarding the origin of Chandragupta, Kautilya, when was Arthashastra written?, the Kalinga episode, the ladies in Ashoka;s life among others.
The author displays a sharp and acerbic wit, almost a parody like tone in some sections like during the Arthashastra section which is quite delightful.
All in all, this book acts as a good introduction to the ‘Mauryas’ in an engaging fashion which should appeal to the layman readers while still not disappointing any academically oriented reader as well to a decent extent.
The author captures the life of the Mauryas starting from the rise of Magadha in the 6th Century BCE, to Bimbisara-Ajatshatru, the Nandas, and the 3 main Mauryas- Chandragupta, Bindusara, Ashok with the wily Kautilya or Chanaka in tow and finally the aftermath. The author also covers different aspects of the Mauryan Empire including the structures, administration pattern etc.
The author tries to build a cohesive and engaging narrative pieces together the different elements from the Buddhist, Jainist and Puranic sources and the corresponding modern authors while pointing out the contradictions and fancifulness for some of the stories. The narrative largely remains lucid, readable and satisfies the intent of the book to provide an good introduction to the Mauryas. The author does tackles the questions regarding the origin of Chandragupta, Kautilya, when was Arthashastra written?, the Kalinga episode, the ladies in Ashoka;s life among others.
The author displays a sharp and acerbic wit, almost a parody like tone in some sections like during the Arthashastra section which is quite delightful.
All in all, this book acts as a good introduction to the ‘Mauryas’ in an engaging fashion which should appeal to the layman readers while still not disappointing any academically oriented reader as well to a decent extent.
June 15, 2023
I have always been interested in early history and connections with our so called mythology.
Devika takes us from early history where seven states are jostling for control in India. The chapter dedicated to Ajatshatru is icing on the cake as she sets the stage for Mauryas. Before coming to mauryas, she discusses Kautilya. The chapters on Chandragupta and Bindusar are covered with adequate detail though one laments that so less is known about one of the best generals of India.
the chapters on Ashoka have been covered well where her style of narration does justice to bring out the greatness of a king considering those times.
She rightly narrates apathy of historians towards women who played important roles during Nauruan period. She mentions a few more like Rajshri which may drive readers to read more about them. as she rightly highlights that more facts are coming out about Mauryan period as new discoveries are being made, a lot may come out through synthesis of Hindu texts.
WHAT MORE COULD HAVE BEEN THERE
Almost nothing of military history of both war fought by Chandragupta or Ashoka has been brought out. One misses details of Kalinga war which has major impact on Ashoka turning non violent.
Devika steers clear of certain references where it is mentioned that Ashoka executed Ajivikas once he converted to Buddhism.
The term Brahamanism which is western term and in ways derogatory to Vedic religion has been adopted by Devika as well in line with authors like Romila Thapar.
The photographs and portraits could have been added. the book has been expanded to have almost 300 pages where the matter could have been covered in 150 pages. so dearth of space was not a issue!.
Overall- A good read.
Devika takes us from early history where seven states are jostling for control in India. The chapter dedicated to Ajatshatru is icing on the cake as she sets the stage for Mauryas. Before coming to mauryas, she discusses Kautilya. The chapters on Chandragupta and Bindusar are covered with adequate detail though one laments that so less is known about one of the best generals of India.
the chapters on Ashoka have been covered well where her style of narration does justice to bring out the greatness of a king considering those times.
She rightly narrates apathy of historians towards women who played important roles during Nauruan period. She mentions a few more like Rajshri which may drive readers to read more about them. as she rightly highlights that more facts are coming out about Mauryan period as new discoveries are being made, a lot may come out through synthesis of Hindu texts.
WHAT MORE COULD HAVE BEEN THERE
Almost nothing of military history of both war fought by Chandragupta or Ashoka has been brought out. One misses details of Kalinga war which has major impact on Ashoka turning non violent.
Devika steers clear of certain references where it is mentioned that Ashoka executed Ajivikas once he converted to Buddhism.
The term Brahamanism which is western term and in ways derogatory to Vedic religion has been adopted by Devika as well in line with authors like Romila Thapar.
The photographs and portraits could have been added. the book has been expanded to have almost 300 pages where the matter could have been covered in 150 pages. so dearth of space was not a issue!.
Overall- A good read.
March 9, 2023
I think the author did a good job of walking the reader through a detailed but rather quick overview of the Mauryan stalwarts with focus on Ashoka. As promised in her title she did talk about the backstories and sagas. She cited references prolifically throughout the book. Her writing style is quite interesting because of it's irreverence and humor. It was a relatively quick read for me and while I don't walk away from reading the book with a thorough knowledge of the Mauryan period, I am definitely more acquainted with life during that time than before I read it. I have started reading Charles Allen's book, Ashoka prior to reading this book. Allen's book was more of a history of how the discoveries about the Mauryan period were made in India, Sri Lanka and other neighboring countries. So this book was more enlightening about the Mauryan dynasty itself.
May 3, 2023
Was a fascinating read through & through. The author takes one back to how the Mauryan state developed & she writes this book in a less academic & more novelist sort of manner wherein persons who don’t delve into History all the time will love reading through this book.
For example I didn’t know that Ashoka might’ve had a strained relationship with his father Bindusara. Will highly recommend it for those who want to understand how the past very much plays an interesting part of our present.
For example I didn’t know that Ashoka might’ve had a strained relationship with his father Bindusara. Will highly recommend it for those who want to understand how the past very much plays an interesting part of our present.
December 27, 2023
Definately the period we have read about in the book is not an easy one, as we don’t have a solid answers. I enjoyed the book flowing through the base of how the dynasty came into picture and how it has flown over time. The author also tried to complete a lot of circles or open points. Still I felt a few things are missing or possibly payed safe so to avoid assumptions or speculations.
May 13, 2024
I was quite excited to read about my heroes Chanakya and Chandragupta Maurya when I started reading this book.
However, the author's consistent jumping around when talking about the facts really confused the shit out of me at times. Although she had acknowledged this will be part of the book, I did not realise how much it will mess with my brain
Another point I want to make is that although she has quoted various sources, I do not like the fact that she has quoted Romila Thapar a lot knowing how she has been towards Indian history, especially elevating Mughal rulers and putting Indian emperors down in our history books. This is quite evidently seen when the author has used "Brahmanical religion" when referring to Sanatan Dharma insuniating that in her view, it is a religion that is controlled by Brahmins like Abrahamic religions which have their own priestly figures. However, such terms and thought does great injustice to the whole faith and philosophy of the Indus Valley Civilisation.
Other than these qualms, I definitely enjoyed reading about the rise of this great empire, and made me love the patriotism that Chanakya and Chandragupta had in those days which I feel should be replicated in all youngsters in this age
However, the author's consistent jumping around when talking about the facts really confused the shit out of me at times. Although she had acknowledged this will be part of the book, I did not realise how much it will mess with my brain
Another point I want to make is that although she has quoted various sources, I do not like the fact that she has quoted Romila Thapar a lot knowing how she has been towards Indian history, especially elevating Mughal rulers and putting Indian emperors down in our history books. This is quite evidently seen when the author has used "Brahmanical religion" when referring to Sanatan Dharma insuniating that in her view, it is a religion that is controlled by Brahmins like Abrahamic religions which have their own priestly figures. However, such terms and thought does great injustice to the whole faith and philosophy of the Indus Valley Civilisation.
Other than these qualms, I definitely enjoyed reading about the rise of this great empire, and made me love the patriotism that Chanakya and Chandragupta had in those days which I feel should be replicated in all youngsters in this age
June 13, 2023
This was a wonderfully narrated and easily consumable book about the Mauryas. What an interesting dynasty with the crazy back stories. The scale and imagination of Ashoka’s written proclamations continues to be just incredible!
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews