Before SRK’s version, there was a grand Tamil-language film (dubbed into Hindi as Samrat Ashok ).
The closest and most famous cinematic representation is the Hindi film (spelled with one 'h'), directed by Santosh Sivan.
Ashoka trains rigorously and becomes an exceptional warrior. He accompanies his father to the battlefield and proves his mettle. However, Ashoka's compassionate side is revealed when he spares the life of a defeated enemy.