Samrat Samprati: Ashoka’s Grandson Who Helped Spread Jainism

Why in the News?

The Samrat Samprati Museum was inaugurated in Koba, Gandhinagar on Mahavir Jayanti, highlighting the role of Samrat Samprati, grandson of Ashoka, in spreading Jainism.

Mauryan Dynasty and Religion

Ashoka and Buddhism

• Ashoka ruled: 269–232 BCE
• Adopted Buddhism after Kalinga War
• Spread Buddhism:
  • Sri Lanka
  • Southeast Asia
  • Central Asia
• Promoted ethical kingship and Dhamma

Jain Connections in Mauryan Dynasty

Chandragupta Maurya

• Founder of Mauryan Empire
• According to Jain tradition:
  • Converted to Jainism
  • Migrated to Shravanabelagola (Karnataka)
  • Practised Sallekhana (fast unto death)
• Ashoka’s First Wife
  • Padmavati believed to be Jain

Who Was Samrat Samprati

• Grandson of Ashoka
• Son of Kunala
• Ruled: c. 230–220 BCE
• Associated with Shvetambara Jain tradition
• Often called: “Ashoka of Jainism”