Correct option is D
The correct answer is (d) Asoka
Asoka, also known as Ashoka the Great, was the Maurya emperor who ruled almost the entire Indian subcontinent during the 3rd century BCE.
After the bloody Kalinga War, Asoka embraced Buddhism and became a prominent patron of the religion.
He actively promoted Buddhism both within his empire and beyond, sending missionaries to places like Sri Lanka, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia.
Asoka's reign is known for the widespread dissemination of Buddhist teachings and the establishment of Asoka’s Edicts, which were inscribed on pillars and rocks across the empire to promote moral governance and welfare.
His commitment to Dhamma (moral law) and the welfare of his people was central to his rule, which marked a turning point in Indian history, from a focus on military conquest to the promotion of peace, tolerance, and religious harmony.
Information Booster:
Asoka is credited with spreading Buddhism far beyond the Indian subcontinent, including sending his son Mahinda to Sri Lanka, which helped establish Buddhism there.
Asoka’s Edicts are a major source of knowledge about his policies and his transformation after the Kalinga War.
He implemented a governance model based on Buddhist principles of non-violence, kindness, and respect for all religions.
Asoka's efforts also focused on social welfare, such as building hospitals, planting trees, and digging wells.
His reign is often seen as a golden age of Buddhism in India and a significant period of cultural and spiritual development.
Additional Information:
Ashurbanipal was an Assyrian king known for his library and conquest, not associated with Buddhism.
Harsha was another ruler who supported Buddhism, though Asoka’s contribution is more significant in terms of spreading the religion.
Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Maurya Empire, initially embraced Jainism before converting to Buddhism later in life.
