The Kalinga War is fought between the Mauryan Empire under Ashoka the Great and the state of Kalinga, a feudal republic located on the coast of the present-day Indian state of Orissa.

The only major war Ashoka fought after his accession to throne, the Kalinga war is one of the major battles in the history of India.

Kalinga puts up a stiff resistance, but they are no match for Ashoka's brutal strength.

The bloodshed of this war is said to have prompted Ashoka to adopt Buddhism.

However, he retains Kalinga after its conquest and incorporates into the Maurya Empire.

The consequences of this savage conquest change Ashoka's views on war and lead him to pledge never to wage a war.