New Delhi- Prominent Buddhist scholar Dr. Sanjay Gajbhiye has strongly demanded that a national public holiday be declared on the birth anniversary of the great Emperor Ashoka, calling it a long-overdue recognition of India’s glorious history and universal values.

Emperor Ashoka (circa 304–232 BCE), the third ruler of the Mauryan Empire, was the grandson of Chandragupta Maurya and son of Emperor Bindusara. He ascended the throne around 268 BCE and ruled over one of the largest empires in ancient India. His reign is widely regarded as a golden period marked by remarkable political, social, and religious reforms.

Dr. Gajbhiye highlighted that Emperor Ashoka’s contributions are not limited to India alone. He established global ideals of peace, justice, non-violence, and secular governance that continue to inspire the world even today.

The turning point in Ashoka’s life came after the brutal Kalinga War (circa 262–261 BCE). The massive loss of life and suffering witnessed during the war deeply moved the emperor. Following the war, he renounced violence and adopted the policy of “Dhamma” based on non-violence (Ahimsa) and compassion.

The core principles of Ashoka’s Dhamma policy included non-violence and kindness towards all living beings, religious tolerance, welfare-oriented governance, and an honest, corruption-free administration. These values elevated him to the status of one of the greatest rulers in world history.

In modern India, Emperor Ashoka’s symbols are deeply embedded in the nation’s identity. The national emblem of India is directly taken from the Lion Capital of Ashoka’s Sarnath pillar, featuring four lions symbolizing courage, power, vigilance, and unity. This emblem appears on all official government documents, laws, and constitutional papers.

The Ashoka Chakra, with its 24 spokes, occupies the centre of the Indian national flag, representing justice, truth, duty, and the eternal wheel of time. Ashoka Hall in Rashtrapati Bhavan is used for high-level ceremonies and oath-taking events. Additionally, the country’s highest peacetime gallantry award, the Ashoka Chakra, is named after him and is awarded for exceptional courage and sacrifice.

Despite Ashoka’s immense contribution to Indian culture and values, his birth anniversary is not observed as a national public holiday. It is currently celebrated only as “Dhamma Divas” in limited circles. Dr. Sanjay Gajbhiye described this as a historical irony and neglect that needs to be corrected.

Declaring a national holiday on Emperor Ashoka’s Jayanti would not only honour his legacy but also promote the values of non-violence, secularism, justice, and social harmony among the youth and citizens. Educational institutions and government bodies could organise seminars, exhibitions, cultural programmes, and lectures on Ashoka Chakra and Dhamma policy on this day.

Dr. Gajbhiye emphasised that Ashoka’s vision was not confined to India. His principles of secular and humane governance are still studied in global institutions, including the United Nations. Observing his Jayanti as a national holiday would strengthen India’s image as a beacon of peace and non-violence on the world stage.

The Buddhist scholar appealed to both the Central and State governments to declare Ashoka’s birth anniversary a public holiday. He stated that this step would enhance respect for India’s history and culture, spread positive values in society, and inspire the younger generation towards ethical leadership and public welfare.