Previous Year Question
Who among the following was also known as ‘Devanampiyadassi’?
A.
Gautama Buddha
B.
Mauryan Emperor Chandragupta
C.
Mauryan Emperor Ashoka
D.
Lord Mahavira
Correct Answer: C
Detailed Solution
Emperor Ashoka frequently referred to himself in his inscriptions by titles such as Devanampiya Piyadasi. The expression is generally understood as “Beloved of the Gods, Piyadasi.”
An important historical distinction is that Devanampiya was a royal title and was not uniquely restricted to Ashoka. However, the title Devanampiya Piyadasi occurs prominently in Ashokan inscriptions. Inscriptions such as the one at Maski, where the name Ashoka occurs in association with his royal titulature, helped confirm this identification.