Major Rock Edicts as Social & Cultural Markers

Rock edicts are inscriptions engraved on stone surfaces that record royal proclamations and social ideals. Most prominently, they are associated with Emperor Ashoka (3rd century BCE), who used them to communicate his policy of Dhamma—a moral and ethical code meant to ensure social harmony.

  • Located across India, Pakistan, Nepal, and Afghanistan, these edicts are vital historical sources revealing the social, cultural, religious, and administrative dimensions of ancient India. Their language (Prakrit, Greek, Aramaic) and script (Brahmi, Kharosthi) reflect India’s cultural plurality and administrative reach.

Era-Wise Development

Pre-Mauryan Background

  • Inscriptions before Ashoka were limited; oral traditions dominated record-keeping.
  • Monumental architecture like pillars ....
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