Significance of Candragupta

Candragupta, as described in various texts, refers to the founder of the Maurya dynasty of Magadha and a significant historical figure. He is characterized as a king who ruled for 24 years, associated with Canakya, showcasing deep devotion and moral values. In the drama Mudrarakshasa, he plays a pivotal role, representing themes of power, political intrigue, and heroism. His relationship with Canakya highlights his strategic importance in the establishment of the Maurya Empire, influencing subsequent historical narratives, including Buddhism.

In Dutch: Candragupta; In German: Candragupta; In Finnish: Candragupta; In Spanish: Candragupta

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Candragupta'

Buddhism Books

Candragupta, in Buddhism, is viewed as an ancient king pivotal in Ashoka's lineage, offering essential context for the early chronological framework of Buddhism's development and historical significance.

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Dhammapada (translated from the Pali)

(1) An ancient king who is significant in the lineage of Ashoka, his reign provides a critical backdrop for understanding the chronological context of early Buddhism.[1]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Hindu concept of 'Candragupta'

Hinduism Books

Candragupta, in Hinduism, is depicted as a key figure influenced by Canakya, representing moral values and political strategies. He embodies the complexities of power dynamics, loyalty, and royal traits, notably in the drama "Mudrarakshasa."

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Vishnu Purana

(1) The founder of the Maurya dynasty who will rise to power after the fall of the Nandas.[2]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Kavya (poetry):
Kavya Books

From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)

(1) The founder of the Maurya Empire in India, associated with cunning strategies and political plots, including intrigue involving poison-damsels.[3]

Kavya refers to Sanskrit poetry, a popular ancient Indian tradition of literature. There have been many Sanskrit poets over the ages, hailing from ancient India and beyond. This topic includes mahakavya, or ‘epic poetry’ and natya, or ‘dramatic poetry’.