While the heartland of the Mauryan Empire lay in the Gangetic plains, its influence extended far and wide, reaching into the dense forests and fertile plains of present-day Chhattisgarh. Though direct administrative control may have been less intense compared to the core regions, the Mauryan presence in Chhattisgarh is undeniable, evidenced by archaeological finds and Ashokan inscriptions. This article delves into the extent of Mauryan rule and the significance of Ashokan inscriptions in understanding the empire's impact on the region.
Extent of Mauryan Rule
Determining the precise boundaries of Mauryan control in Chhattisgarh is challenging due to limited historical records. However, available evidence suggests that the empire's influence was significant, particularly in the northern and central parts of the state.
Numismatic Evidence: Discoveries of Mauryan-era coins in districts like Surguja and Bilaspur indicate the circulation of imperial currency and, by extension, trade connections with the Mauryan heartland. These coins, often found alongside those of the preceding Nanda dynasty, suggest a continuity of economic activity and political influence in the region.
Sirpur Excavation: The archaeological site of Sirpur, located in Mahasamund district, has yielded remnants of structures and artifacts dating back to the Mauryan period. This suggests the presence of settlements and possibly administrative centers under Mauryan control.
Sitabenga Caves: The Sitabenga caves in Ramgarh, with their early theatre architecture, are dated to the 3rd century BCE, coinciding with the Mauryan era. These caves provide valuable insights into the cultural and artistic landscape of the region during Mauryan times.
Jogimara Cave Inscription: The Jogimara cave inscription, written in Brahmi script and dating back to 300-160 BCE, further strengthens the case for Mauryan influence. Though the inscription is fragmentary, it provides evidence of literacy and cultural activities in the region during the Mauryan period.
Based on this evidence, it's likely that northern and central Chhattisgarh, particularly areas with fertile plains and trade routes, were under direct or indirect Mauryan administration. The southern parts, with their dense forests and hilly terrain, may have had looser ties to the empire, possibly through alliances with local tribes and chieftains.
Ashokan Inscriptions and their Significance
Ashoka, the third Mauryan emperor, is renowned for his policy of Dhamma, a moral code promoting non-violence, social harmony, and righteous conduct. His edicts, inscribed on pillars and rock surfaces across the empire, provide invaluable insights into his reign and the reach of Mauryan influence.
While no major rock edicts of Ashoka have been found in Chhattisgarh, the Rupnath Minor Rock Edict, located just outside the state's northern border in Madhya Pradesh, is of considerable significance. This edict, along with the Jogimara cave inscription, sheds light on Ashoka's efforts to spread Dhamma in this region.
Significance of Ashokan Inscriptions:
Evidence of Mauryan Reach: The presence of Ashokan inscriptions, even minor ones, confirms the extension of Mauryan influence into Chhattisgarh. They indicate that Ashoka considered this region important enough to include in his Dhamma propagation efforts.
Administrative Insights: The edicts provide glimpses into Ashoka's administrative policies, such as the appointment of Dhamma Mahamatras (officers) to oversee the implementation of his moral code.
Religious and Social Impact: The inscriptions highlight Ashoka's emphasis on non-violence, tolerance, and social welfare. They suggest that his policies may have influenced the religious and social landscape of Chhattisgarh, promoting peaceful coexistence and ethical conduct.
Linguistic and Script Evidence: The inscriptions, written in Brahmi script, provide valuable data for understanding the development of language and writing in the region during the Mauryan era.