The episode begins with a breathtaking view of the Mauryan Empire, which was one of the largest empires of ancient India. The year is 273 BCE, and the empire is ruled by Emperor Bindusara, the father of Ashoka. The scene shifts to the royal palace, where we see Ashoka, played by Sushant Das, as a young prince, fiery and restless. He is the son of Emperor Bindusara and Queen Dharma.