Published as a part of the series by VRI on the 'Great Disciples of the Buddha', this book aims to motivate old students to continue their practice seriously as well as to inspire new students to walk the same path as the exemplary practitioners of Vipassana meditation.

Born to the established Vipassana meditators, King Bimbisara and his wife Koshaldevi, Ajatshatru lived a life of contrasts. Due to wrong influence and greed, he killed his father. After usurping the throne, he conquered surrounding Republican states to establish predominance of Magadha in East India. After realising the falsity of his ways, profound anguish, guilt and lack of mental peace brought him to the doorsteps of the Buddha.

This book narrates the life story of Ajatshatru and his journey from a ruthless warrior to a noble King, who built a stupa to enshrine the relics of the Buddha. He also convened the first historical Council (Dhamma-Saṅgīti) under his patronage at Rājagaha. This book provides an interesting insight into the structure of Republic states in ancient India and guidance given by the Buddha for their protection and prosperity.

This book is ideal for Vipassana meditators as well as non-meditators.