Bimbisara Wikipedia – the first Buddhist king of Magadha. He is remembered as a great patron of Gautama Buddha. During his rule, the kingdom of Magadha was a center of the Indo-Gangetic Plains and was rich in iron ores. It also featured forests and wooded areas, which provided abundant armaments for the army.
He was also known for his generosity towards his citizens. He supported monks of all religions. However, he rejected the privileges of birth and wealth. His empire was spread throughout the subcontinent.
In the time of Bimbisara, the kingdom was divided into three parts. The central government was largely based on village chiefs who ruled with the help of the village council.
Magadha was a rich land of iron ore, minerals, and timber. Bimbisara’s foresight helped the economy of his empire. As a result, it became prosperous. Besides, Bimbisara sowed seeds for a greater kingdom.
King Bimbisara was also associated with the Lord Mahavira. He visited the Buddha in Bharhut. Eventually, he was killed by his son, Ajatasatru.
King Bimbisara’s second wife was Lachchhavi princess of Vaishali. She was the daughter of a Punjabi chief. Her death is also mentioned in the Buddhist scriptures.
Upon becoming king, Bimbisara had a very clear vision for the administration of the vast kingdom. He was also able to strengthen the kingdom by marriage alliances with other kingdoms. For example, he gained the holy city of Kashi, as a dowry, for his first wife.
