| Asoka is a many splendoured diamond. Just as the diamond has many facets, Asoka too has many aspects in his glorious
career. Each facet of the diamond dazzles and dispels darkness. Similarly, each
aspect of Asoka radiates light and enlightens the reader. The brightness of each facet is distinct
and complete in itself, so is the case with each aspect, which is unique in itself.
In as much as the brilliance of the
diamond gets increased by sharpening, the intrinsic grandeur of Asoka rises higher by
proper understanding. Neither time nor age can diminish the value of the
diamond. Likewise, Asoka's reputation can never cease growing less, nor suffer any loss with the
passage of time. As a matter of fact, his name and fame are spreading, as
each historian takes him up for study, just as the value of the diamond increases, on proper
estimation by an expert.
For, Asoka is decidedly different from any ruler, known or unknown. He played many roles during his life time. There is
something magical and special about him, when he plays the different roles he chose
for himself. He surpassed one and all, in the past or present. He beautified whatever he touched,
and sanctified whatever that he held dear to his heart. He lived in each
part he played, and has left behind him a rare, radiant, precious legacy
for the mankind to understand, and to follow.
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