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Kalashoka
King of Magadha
Reign c. 395 – c. 367 BCE
Predecessor Shishunaga
Successor Nandivardhan (Magadha throne)
Issue Bhadrasena
Korandavarna
Mangura
Sarvanjaha
Jalika
Ubhaka
Sanjaya
Koravya
Nandivardhana
Panchamaka
Dynasty Shishunaga dynasty
Father Shishunaga

Kalashoka (also known as Kakavarna) was an important king in ancient India. He was the son of King Shishunaga and took over the kingdom after him. Kalashoka ruled the Magadha kingdom, which was a powerful state at that time.

Kalashoka's Rule as King

When Kalashoka became king, he made some big changes. His father, King Shishunaga, had moved the capital city of the Magadha kingdom to a place called Vaishali. But Kalashoka decided to move the capital back to Pataliputra. This was a very important city for the kingdom.

The Second Buddhist Council

Ancient Buddhist writings tell us about a major event during Kalashoka's reign. This was the Second Buddhist Council. A council is like a big meeting where important leaders discuss things. This meeting happened about 100 years after the death of Lord Buddha. It took place in Vaishali. King Kalashoka supported this council, trying to help different groups of Buddhists agree. However, even with his help, some differences among them continued.

Dividing the Kingdom

Later in his rule, King Kalashoka made a unique decision. He divided his large kingdom among his ten sons. They all ruled at the same time. He chose his ninth son, Nandivardhana, to be the main king of Magadha.

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