India

Leaders

• Ashoka

Dharma

• Starts the game knowing Astrology.
• +1 per citizen
• +1 per 2 citizens. Cities grow larger before sickness sets in.

Ashoka

Each copy you ship them, by caravan or trade deal, raises their mood towards you by 2 (up to 6).

Biography

Ashoka the Great (c. 304–232 BCE) was the raj of Magadha and the third emperor of the Maurya Dynasty. Widely believed to be one of the greatest Indian emperors, Ashoka pursued the Kalinga War (c. 261 BCE), which unified most of the Indian subcontinent. However, after witnessing the brutal and senseless violence of war, Ashoka embraced Buddhism and the principles of non-violence, religious tolerance, and moral governance. He issued a series of Edicts inscribed on pillars and rocks across his empire which advocated for the concept of dharma, or ethical living. His rule saw the spread of Buddhism, infrastructure development, and significant social reforms.

Ashoka’s reign marked a period of peace, prosperity, and cultural flourishing. After his death, however, the Maurya Empire gradually weakened. Still, Ashoka remains revered for his transformation from a ruthless conqueror to a compassionate ruler, with his legacy of religious and social reforms lasting for centuries. The flag of present-day India centers the Ashoka chakra, representing the cyclical nature of life and death.