Samrat Amitraghāta (Slayer of Enemies)
Bindusara
The second Mauryan emperor who expanded the empire southward into the Deccan.
Years
c. 320 BCE – 272 BCE
Reign
c. 297 BCE – 272 BCE
Dynasty
Maurya
Kingdom
maurya empire
Biography
Bindusara succeeded his father Chandragupta Maurya and continued the expansion of the Maurya Empire. Called "Amitraghāta" (Slayer of Enemies) in Greek sources, he extended the empire southward into the Deccan plateau, adding much of modern Karnataka and Andhra. He maintained diplomatic relations with Hellenistic kings (Antiochus I Soter of Syria). Bindusara supported the Ajivika sect alongside Brahmins and Buddhists. His reign saw the continued prosperity of the Mauryan state founded by his father.
Chronology
Timeline of Life
Birth
Born to Chandragupta Maurya and Queen Durdhara.
Coronation
Ascends the Mauryan throne after his father's abdication.
Southern Expansion
Campaigns in the Deccan, extending Mauryan control.
Death
Dies, leaving a succession conflict between his sons.
Lineage
Family Tree
Parents
Spouse
Children
Predecessor
Chandragupta Maurya
Successor
Ashoka the Great
Statecraft
Political Career
Bindusara ruled for roughly 25 years, maintaining the empire his father built while expanding its southern reaches. He managed diplomatic relations with the Hellenistic world.
Governance
Administration
He continued the administrative system established by Chandragupta and Chanakya.
Prosperity
Economy
The economy remained prosperous with continuing trade and agriculture.
Justice
Justice System
The Mauryan legal system continued under established traditions.
Design
Architecture
Little is known of architectural projects under Bindusara.
Faith
Religion
Bindusara supported the Ajivika sect. He also patronized Brahmins and Buddhists.
Knowledge
Education
The Gurukul and university system continued, with Taxila remaining a major center.
Campaigns
Military Campaigns
His major campaigns were focused on the Deccan plateau.
Choices
Important Decisions
He maintained the diplomatic course set by Chandragupta, keeping relations with Hellenistic kingdoms.
Command
Leadership Style
Bindusara was a capable administrator and military leader who maintained the stability of the Mauryan Empire.
Trivia
Interesting Facts
Bindusara is called Amitrochates in Greek sources.
He asked Antiochus I to send him sweet wine, dried figs, and a sophist (philosopher).
He was a follower of the Ajivika sect.
Remembrance
Legacy
Bindusara maintained and expanded the Mauryan Empire, setting the stage for his son Ashoka to become the greatest Mauryan emperor.