The Emperor Poem by Mehta Hasmukh Amathaal

The emperor, Ashoka the great*
Realized truth and met his fate
Millions died on battle field
He cried and thought “what he did”?

What was the gain?
Such a human tragedy with lots of pain
How many homes were demolished?
How many families were finished?

“No, no, I can’t rule this kingdom
It will give me peace seldom
It will be on heap of ruins
I must go for salvation and join

The sword was put on hold
He thought of merciful God
The love must be spread
The peace must be believed

He took to the path of worldly denunciation
No more wars for annexation
No bloodshed for the want of ambition
Only work for poor and strengthen the institution

He sent her daughter across the south Asia
That was the first step across far seas
Real spread of love and peace message
He lived with promises as sage

“Come to me. I shall show the way”
Appealed teachings of lord Buddha’s as sun rays
“World is for not pleasure” he firmly believed
”Live in it with people and assure” observed and died
* Ashoka the great, , name and title