The Mauryan Empire wasn’t just famous for its powerful rulers and vast territory—it was also a time when Indian art and architecture flourished. From royal pillars to beautifully crafted caves, Mauryan Art left a deep impact on India’s culture.
Language, Script, and Significance in the Mauryan Art & Period: UGC NET Focus
One of the most unique achievements of the Mauryan period was the use of multiple languages and scripts to connect with people across a vast empire. This not only helped administration but also spread Ashoka’s moral teachings.
1. Languages Used in Mauryan Edicts
Ashoka’s inscriptions were written in different languages depending on the region, so that everyone could understand his messages.
| Region | Language Used | Purpose |
| Eastern India | Magadhi Prakrit | Main language of Mauryan court |
| Northwestern India | Greek and Aramaic | To connect with foreign settlers (Greeks, Persians) |
| Central and Western India | Local Prakrits + Brahmi | Regional understanding |
Example: In Kandahar (Afghanistan), Ashoka’s edict was written in both Greek and Aramaic—helping communicate with people from Greek and Persian backgrounds.
2. Scripts Used in Mauryan Edicts
The Mauryas used two main scripts: Brahmi and Kharosthi. These scripts were chosen based on the region and audience.
| Script | Region Used | Features |
| Brahmi | Most of India | Written left to right, easy to read |
| Kharosthi | Northwest (e.g. Pakistan) | Written right to left, inspired by Aramaic |
Brahmi later evolved into major Indian scripts like Devanagari (used in Hindi and Sanskrit), Tamil, Kannada, and others.
3. Why This Matters: The Significance of Edicts
Ashoka’s inscriptions were much more than royal announcements. They played a crucial role in building the identity of ancient India.
a. Administrative Unity
In a time without newspapers or internet, these rock and pillar inscriptions were how messages were spread. By using familiar languages and common script, the government connected with all levels of society.
Example: Edicts were placed along trade routes and pilgrimage sites so travelers and traders would read and follow them.
b. Promoting Moral Governance
Ashoka’s Dhamma (moral code) was written on these edicts. It promoted:
- Non-violence (Ahimsa)
- Respect for all religions
- Care for animals and the environment
- Public welfare like building hospitals, rest houses, and wells
c. Cultural and Linguistic Legacy
- The term “Devanampiya Piyadassi” (Beloved of the Gods) appears in many edicts, confirming Ashoka’s identity as the author.
- The use of multiple languages and scripts showed a blend of cultures and global awareness.
- These ideas influenced rulers not only in India but across Asia—in places like Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Thailand.
The Mauryan Empire, under Ashoka, used art, architecture, language, and inscriptions as powerful tools to spread messages of peace and unity. For UGC NET aspirants, this is more than history—it’s a lesson in communication, governance, and cultural evolution. Understanding how Ashoka’s pillars and edicts changed ancient Indian society helps connect past to present.
Mauryan Art and Architecture: Pillars, Stupas, and Other Architectural Contributions for UGC NET
The Mauryan Empire (322 BCE to 185 BCE) was not only about powerful kings and vast territories. It also saw the beginning of India’s first major architectural and artistic movement. For UGC NET aspirants, knowing Mauryan art is essential as it showcases a unique blend of local traditions and foreign styles.
Mauryan Pillars: Symbols of Power and Morality | UGC NET Notes
One of the most famous contributions of the Mauryan era is the Ashokan pillars. These were tall stone structures built to spread messages of peace and good behavior.
Key Features of Mauryan Pillars:
| Feature | Description |
| Material | Chunar sandstone, shiny and well-polished |
| Structure | Carved from a single stone (monolithic), tapering design |
| Top Decoration | Animal figures like lions, bulls, and elephants |
| Purpose | Spread Ashoka’s Dhamma, marked religious and important sites |
Famous Examples:
- Sarnath Lion Capital: Four lions standing back to back with a Dharma wheel. It is now India’s national emblem.
- Rampurva Bull: Beautifully carved bull on top of the pillar, showing realistic features.
- Lauriya Nandangarh Pillar: Has inscriptions with a seated lion on top.
These pillars were not just art pieces; they were powerful tools to promote ethics and unity.
Mauryan Stupas: Holy Structures with Symbolic Meaning | UGC NET Art Revision
Stupas were dome-like religious buildings built mainly to preserve the remains of the Buddha and spread Buddhist ideas.
Main Parts of a Stupa:
| Part | Symbolism |
| Anda (dome) | The universe and Buddha’s presence |
| Harmika | The square railing over the dome |
| Chhatra | Umbrella that shows respect and high status |
| Pathway | Used for walking around the stupa in prayer |
Important Stupas:
- Sanchi Stupa: Built during Ashoka’s time and later decorated with beautiful stories from Buddha’s life.
- Bharhut Stupa: Carvings show early Buddhist scenes.
- Dhamekh Stupa (Sarnath): Marks the spot where Buddha gave his first teaching.
The stupas were not just places of worship but acted as symbols of Buddhist values.
Rock-Cut Architecture: Living Monuments of the Mauryan Era | UGC NET Preparation
The Mauryans also carved caves into hills for monks to live and meditate. These caves showed impressive craftsmanship.
Famous Mauryan Caves:
- Lomas Rishi Cave: Shaped like a wooden hut, it has an arched doorway and shiny walls.
- Sudama Cave: Gifted to monks, known for its smooth interior and simple design.
These caves showed how advanced Mauryan workers were in using stone tools.
Palaces and Urban Design: Advanced City Planning in Mauryan India | UGC NET History Focus
The capital city, Pataliputra, was a marvel in urban design.
Key Urban Features:
- Large wooden palaces with stone polish
- 80-pillared halls
- Gardens and water systems
- Fort walls, proper roads, and drainage
Greek visitor Megasthenes praised the city for its beauty and planning.
Other cities like Ujjain and Taxila had markets, public buildings, and administrative offices.
Sculptures and Everyday Art: The Artistic Side of the Mauryans | UGC NET Cultural Studies
Art was not limited to kings and temples. Common people also created beautiful figures.
Types of Mauryan Art:
| Type | Description |
| Stone Sculptures | Large figures like Yakshinis (goddess-like women) |
| Terracotta Figurines | Small clay idols and toys made in large numbers |
| Rock Carvings | Figures carved directly onto rock surfaces |
Famous Example:
- Didarganj Yakshini: A tall, shiny statue of a woman holding a fly-whisk, showing grace and detail.
- Dhauli Elephant: A big elephant carved on a rock, marking Ashoka’s change after the Kalinga war.
Cultural Fusion and Impact: Why Mauryan Art Still Matters | UGC NET Insight
The Mauryan art style mixed Indian and Persian elements:
| Influence | Seen In |
| Persian Style | Polished pillars, animal designs, and floral decorations |
| Indian Creativity | Free-standing stupas, storytelling carvings |
Lasting Legacy:
- Helped spread Buddhism across Asia
- Influenced later empires like the Guptas
- Promoted unity through art and architecture
Mauryan art and architecture were not just beautiful but meaningful. They taught values, helped in administration, and connected people from different regions. For UGC NET aspirants, these artistic developments are important topics that show how culture and governance worked hand-in-hand in ancient India.
Conclusion
The Mauryan period was a golden age not just of political unity but also of artistic brilliance and architectural innovation. From the towering Ashokan pillars to the intricately carved stupas and rock-cut caves, Mauryan contributions laid the foundation for India’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Ashoka’s use of language and script in inscriptions shows a deep commitment to communication, governance, and moral education. For UGC NET History aspirants, mastering these topics is essential—not only to clear the exam but to appreciate how art, language, and governance shaped ancient Indian society.
Mauryan Art and Architecture for UGC NET FAQs
What are the main features of Mauryan pillars?
Mauryan pillars were monolithic, made of polished sandstone, had animal capitals (like lions or bulls), and were inscribed with Ashoka’s messages of peace and morality.
How did Mauryan rock-cut architecture reflect the empire’s values?
The rock-cut caves, like Lomas Rishi and Sudama, were made for monks, promoting simplicity, meditation, and spiritual growth—values central to Ashoka’s Dhamma.
What languages and scripts were used in Mauryan inscriptions?
Languages included Magadhi Prakrit, Greek, Aramaic, and local dialects. Scripts included Brahmi (used across India) and Kharosthi (used in the northwest).
Why is Didarganj Yakshini important in Mauryan art?
Didarganj Yakshini is a famous Mauryan sculpture that showcases the era’s high skill in stone carving and the emphasis on grace and naturalism in art.
