Final answer:
The first emperor of the Gupta Dynasty was Chandragupta I, not to be confused with Chandragupta Maurya of the earlier Maurya Empire. Ashoka the Great, a Mauryan emperor, was instrumental in the widespread adoption of Buddhism after converting due to the bloody Kalinga War. The correct option is a. chandra gupta i
Step-by-step explanation:
The First Gupta Emperor
The first emperor of the Gupta dynasty was Chandragupta I. He laid the foundation for the Gupta Empire and was succeeded by his son Samudragupta. This period is renowned for its achievements in the arts, science, and the promotion of classical Sanskrit literature, evidencing the development of a sophisticated and enduring culture.
Ashoka's Contribution to Buddhism
Emperor Ashoka the Great, of the Maurya Dynasty, played a significant role in the spread of Buddhism. After witnessing the horrific aftermath of the Kalinga War, Ashoka converted to Buddhism and implemented reforms across India to ensure a more compassionate governance. He facilitated the spread of Buddhism to regions such as Burma and Sri Lanka, leaving a permanent mark on the religious landscape of Asia. The correct option is a. chandra gupta i