Q. Consider the following with reference to the disintegration and decline of the Mauryan Empire:
1. Brahmanical revolt
2. King Ashoka’s pacifist policies
3. Invasions from outside
4. Weakness of Ashoka’s successors
Which of the above reasons led to the disintegration and decline of the Mauryan Empire?
(a) 1, 2 and 4
(b) 2 and 4
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Ans: (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Explanation: The reasons that led to the disintegration and decline of the Mauryan Empire include the following:
1. Brahmanical revolt: This refers to the opposition faced by the Mauryan Empire from Brahmanical factions, who were unhappy with Ashoka’s promotion of Buddhism and his policies that challenged the traditional Brahmanical order.
2. King Ashoka’s pacifist policies: Ashoka, after embracing Buddhism, adopted policies of non-violence and peaceful coexistence. This shift away from aggressive expansionism and military conquest might have weakened the empire’s ability to maintain control over its vast territories.
3. Invasions from outside: The Mauryan Empire faced invasions and attacks from external forces, such as the Greeks in the northwest and the Bactrians and Parthians in Central Asia. These invasions posed a significant challenge to the empire’s stability.
4. Weakness of Ashoka’s successors: After Ashoka’s reign, the subsequent rulers of the Mauryan Empire were relatively weak and unable to maintain the same level of centralized control and stability. This weakness among Ashoka’s successors contributed to the decline and fragmentation of the empire.
Considering the above reasons, the correct option is (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4. All of the mentioned factors played a role in the disintegration and decline of the Mauryan Empire.
