MAHAVIRA

Mahavira means 'great hero' in Sanskrit and this one prepared the central tenents of Jainism. Why are there no early Vedic / Hindu names? If this list had gods on it, they would be earlier than Mahavira, but it does not and actual people do not figure into the early stories very well. Mahavira established a powerful doctrine and is the earliest Indian figure of import for us.

599-527

Founder of Jainism

THE BUDDHA

Siddhartha Gautama, a local prince in northern India (recall India, unlike China, has usually had a decentralized political character) went on a journey of curiousity and self-discovery which led to his becoming enlightened, reaching a state of bliss called Nirvana.

563-483

Founder of Buddhism

CHANDRAGUPTA MAURYA

Began the Maurya Dynasty.

284-238

Emperor of India

ASHOKA MAURYA

Probably the most famous king in the history of India, Ashoka has had movies made about him by Bollywood, and maintains a legendary authority. As a Mauryan ruler, he centralized the country and provinces.

284-238

Emperor of India