261 BCE
Kalinga War
The Kalinga War was fought between the Maurya Empire under Ashoka and the independent Kalinga kingdom. The Kalingans fought with exceptional courage, but were ultimately defeated by the superior Maurya forces. The slaughter moved Ashoka profoundly, leading him to convert to Buddhism and dedicate the rest of his reign to non-violence and ethical governance.
Year
261 BCE
Result
Mauryan victory (but transformative)
Location
Kalinga (modern Odisha)
Kingdom
maurya empire
Battle Details
The Kalinga War was fought between the Maurya Empire under Ashoka and the independent Kalinga kingdom. The Kalingans fought with exceptional courage, but were ultimately defeated by the superior Maurya forces. The slaughter moved Ashoka profoundly, leading him to convert to Buddhism and dedicate the rest of his reign to non-violence and ethical governance.
Significance
The Kalinga War was the turning point in Ashoka's life. The massive casualties (over 100,000 deaths) led Ashoka to renounce violence, embrace Buddhism, and adopt his policy of Dhamma.
Commanders
Ashoka's Rock Edict XIII
Ashoka's own description of the war and its impact on him.