Excavation of Mauryan Empire in Patna

• 12 Dec 2024

Why in News? 

Recently, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) initiated the excavation of the '80-pillared assembly hall' at Kumhrar, a site regarded as the only surviving evidence of the architectural achievements of the Mauryan emperors in the Indian subcontinent. 

 Key Points 

• Uncovering the Mauryan Palace at Kumhrar: 
  • According to ASI, the excavation began on 1st December 2024 at the Kumhrar protected site in Patna, focusing on the Asokan Sabha Ghar (assembly hall). 
  • The primary aim is to assess the current condition of the buried Mauryan stone pillars. 
  • A detailed scientific analysis will be conducted, including collaboration with the Central Ground Water Board to measure the water table. 
  • Based on the findings, the possibility of uncovering all 80 pillars will be considered. 
• Historical Context and Past Excavations: 
  • The Mauryan period hall, believed to have been used by Emperor Ashoka for the Third Buddhist Council in the 3rd century BCE, was first revealed through excavations between 1912–1915 and 1951–1955. 
• Challenges: 
  • In the late 1990s, the ruins suffered from waterlogging due to groundwater seepage, causing damage to the structure. 
    • To prevent further deterioration, the site was covered with soil and sand in 2004. 
  • Initially, a few pillars will be uncovered for condition assessment. If the condition permits, more pillars may be revealed to the public. 
• Importance of Kumhrar: 
  • Kumhrar, located in Patna, houses remnants of the ancient city of Pataliputra, the Mauryan Empire's capital. 
  • Archaeological discoveries at Kumhrar, dating to 600 BCE, provide insights into the history of rulers like Ajatasattu, Chandragupta Maurya, and Ashoka. 
  • The site includes artifacts spanning four historical periods, from 600 BCE to 600 CE, highlighting its historical significance. 

 Mauryan Dynasty  

• Chandragupta Maurya (321–297 BCE): The founder of the Mauryan Empire, overthrew the Nanda dynasty and expanded the empire by annexing regions such as the Hindu Kush.   
  • In 305–303 BCE, he formed a treaty with Seleucus Nicator, gaining additional territories. Later in life, Chandragupta became a disciple of Jainism.  
  • Chanakya, the prime minister under the reign of Chandragupta Maurya (322 BCE - 297 BCE) and his successor Bindusar. Chanakya played a significant role in the empire’s success.  
• Bindusara (298-272 BCE): Expanded the empire to the Deccan, known as "Amitraghata" (slayer of enemies). Adopted the Ajivika sect. Deimachus was a Greek ambassador at his court.  
• Ashoka (272-232 BCE): After the Kalinga War, which led to massive casualties, he embraced Buddhism and promoted peace through his Dhamma (moral laws). Organized the 3rd Buddhist Council and spread Buddhism globally.  
• Dasharatha (232–224 BCE): Last Mauryan ruler to issue imperial inscriptions. Faced territorial losses.  
• Samprati (224–215 BCE): Re-established Mauryan control over disintegrated territories and promoted Jainism.  
• Shalishuka (215–202 BCE): Known as a quarrelsome ruler with a negative reputation.  
• Devavarman (202–195 BCE): Brief reign, mentioned in the Puranas.  
• Shatadhanvan (195–187 BCE): Lost territories due to external invasions.  
• Brihadratha (187–185 BCE): The last Mauryan emperor, assassinated by Pushyamitra Shunga, marking the end of the Mauryan dynasty.