Which of the following writers ascertains that–During his father’s reign, Ashoka reduced a rising of the Nepalas and Khasyas, tribes of Himalayan mountaineers.

The correct answer is - Taranath

Key Points

• Taranath
  • Taranath, a renowned Tibetan historian, stated that during the reign of Ashoka's father, he suppressed uprisings by the Nepalas and Khasyas, tribes of Himalayan mountaineers.
  • This historical account is supported by Taranath's writings, which focus on the political and cultural history of India from a Tibetan perspective.
  • His work provides critical insights into ancient Indian history, especially during the Mauryan period.
• Other options are incorrect because:
  • Kautilya (Option 1) primarily authored the Arthashastra, which focuses on governance, statecraft, and economy, but does not discuss Ashoka's military actions.
  • Bhasa (Option 2) was a dramatist, and his works are unrelated to Ashoka's campaigns.
  • Ashvaghosh (Option 3) was a Buddhist philosopher and poet, whose writings focus on Buddhist teachings rather than historical accounts of Ashoka’s era.

Additional Information

• Taranath's contributions to historical documentation
  • Taranath's "History of Buddhism in India" is a seminal work that provides extensive historical accounts of Indian rulers, including Ashoka.
  • His writings, though primarily focused on Buddhism, also include valuable details about the political and military events of the Mauryan period.
• Ashoka’s early life and campaigns
  • Before ascending to the throne, Ashoka was involved in various military campaigns under his father, Bindusara.
  • These campaigns were pivotal in consolidating the Mauryan Empire’s control over remote regions.
  • Historical accounts suggest that Ashoka was appointed as the governor of Ujjain and later subdued rebellions in regions like Taxila before becoming emperor.
• Role of Himalayan tribes
  • The Khasyas and Nepalas were prominent tribes located in the Himalayan region during the Mauryan era.
  • Rebellions from such tribes often posed challenges to the central authority of the Mauryan Empire, necessitating military action.