EMPEROR ASHOKA, HIS LEGACY AND SPREAD OF BUDDHISM

Abstract

Emperor Ashoka was placed as one of the greatest ruler and historical personalities of the ancient world by historians like H.G.Wells and thinkers like Shri Aurobindo. He was first and foremost political as well as spiritual patron of Buddhism. It is significant to note that in his attempt to alter the 'Dhamma' of the community, he proceeded not merely by his royal decrees but by dialogue and assemblies. Due to his palnning, organized strategies and vision, Buddhism spread inside and outside India. thus he assumed two titles viz. Devanamapiya' and 'Piyadassi' for glorification of his-contributions towards Buddhism.