Bindusara was the second Mauryan emperor of ancient India, ruling from around 297 BCE to 273 BCE. He was the son of Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Maurya Empire, and is known for expanding the empire further across the Indian subcontinent. His reign is marked by a strong centralized administration and the promotion of trade and agriculture. Bindusara is often remembered for his diplomatic relations with neighboring kingdoms, including Egypt and Greece. He was a follower of Jainism, although he is said to have been more tolerant of other religions. His son, Ashoka, would later succeed him and become one of India's most famous rulers.