Question

What was different between the Maurya and Gupta dynasties? Was there any difference between the Maurya and Gupta outlook on religions?​

Answer 1

Answer:The major differences between the Mauryan and Gupta dynasty are enumerated below;

Difference in time: Mauryan empire existed during 325 – 1285 BCE whereas Gupta dynasty existed between 320 and 550 CE.

Difference in extent: Mauryan Empire was very vast and the dynasty ruled almost all of India, including what is now Pakistan and Afghanistan. Area under the rule of Gupta rulers was mush less than that of Mauryan.

Administrative difference: The administrative structure of the Mauryan Empire was very mush centralized. During Gupta rule, more decentralized administrative structure was followed. Administration of villages was bestowed with local leaders, and the rulers never intervened with such administration.

Tax System: The Maurya rulers introduced very extensive tax system, and imposed heavy taxes on the people. Guptas were more liberal in imposing taxes on citizens.

Difference in religious faith: Although the Mauryan rulers were liberal in religious views, they preferred non-Hindu religions. Chandragupta, the founder of the empire was a follower of Jainism. Most of his successors embraced Buddhism, and Ashoka is historically famous for his unquestioned faith in Buddhism. Ashoka embraced Buddhism out of remorse from the grueling experience of the great Kalinga war. Gupta rulers, on the other hand, were followers of Hinduism and generously patronized the Hindu religion. During the rule of the Gupta dynasty, Hinduism experienced cultural and religious renaissance.

Difference in culture: During the Mauryan rule, architectural beauty reached its highest level, with clear influence of Persian style. Huge Buddhist monasteries and marvelous pillars were erected depicting edicts of Ashoka. The period of Gupta dynasty is known as the golden age of Indian culture as science, art, literature and astronomy reached a new height during this period. Mathura and Gandhara were two leading artistic style during Gupta dynasty, which were influenced by Buddhist and Hellenistic style.

Difference in trade and commerce: The Mauryan rulers actively entered into foreign trade. Indo-Greek friendship treaty was signed during the rule of Chandragupta. Gupta rulers on the other hand were more interested in internal trade.