The relationship between the Vakatakas and the Guptas represents a significant chapter in ancient Indian history. Both dynasties were prominent powers during the 4th and 5th centuries CE, and their alliance not only influenced the political landscape of India but also contributed to the flourishing of culture, religion, and art. While the Guptas ruled northern India, the Vakatakas held sway over large parts of central and southern India, particularly in present-day Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.

Historical Context of the Vakataka-Gupta Relationship

The Guptas, under the leadership of rulers such as Chandragupta I, Samudragupta, and Chandragupta II, emerged as the dominant power in northern India. Similarly, the Vakataka dynasty, founded by Vindhyashakti and later ruled by kings like Pravarasena I and Rudrasena II, became a formidable force in central India. By the early 4th century CE, both dynasties had established themselves as major political entities, with overlapping spheres of influence.

The interaction between the two dynasties was solidified through a marriage alliance between the Gupta and Vakataka royal families, reflecting their shared interests and mutual respect. This alliance played a crucial role in stabilizing the region and fostering cultural and political cooperation.

The Marriage Alliance: Gupta Princess Prabhavatigupta

One of the most significant events in the relationship between the two dynasties was the marriage of Prabhavatigupta, the daughter of Chandragupta II Vikramaditya, to Rudrasena II, a Vakataka ruler of the Nandivardhana branch. This marriage alliance symbolized the growing influence of the Guptas and the strategic importance of the Vakatakas.

Strategic and Political Significance

The marriage was politically advantageous for both dynasties. For the Guptas, it extended their influence into central and southern India, ensuring a cooperative relationship with a powerful neighboring kingdom. For the Vakatakas, the alliance strengthened their legitimacy and aligned them with the culturally prestigious Gupta dynasty, which was at the height of its power during the reign of Chandragupta II.

Role of Prabhavatigupta as Regent

After the untimely death of Rudrasena II, Prabhavatigupta assumed the position of regent for her young sons, ruling the Vakataka kingdom for over a decade. During her regency, Prabhavatigupta brought significant Gupta influence to the Vakataka court. This period witnessed the integration of Gupta cultural and administrative practices into the Vakataka polity.

Prabhavatigupta’s inscriptions, such as the Nagardhan plates, emphasize her Gupta lineage and highlight the respect and authority she commanded in the Vakataka realm. She is credited with fostering the spread of Brahmanical Hinduism, reflecting the religious and cultural traditions of the Gupta court.

Cultural and Religious Interactions

The alliance between the Vakatakas and the Guptas facilitated a remarkable exchange of cultural and religious ideas. Both dynasties were staunch patrons of Brahmanical Hinduism, and their cooperation played a key role in promoting Vedic traditions, temple construction, and Sanskrit literature.

Art and Architecture

The Vakatakas are closely associated with the Ajanta Caves, one of the greatest achievements of ancient Indian art and architecture. The construction and patronage of the Ajanta Caves, particularly during the reign of Harishena, reflect the Gupta-Vakataka influence. The Gupta aesthetic ideals—characterized by grace, balance, and spiritual expression—deeply influenced the artwork and sculptures at Ajanta. This shared artistic tradition underscores the cultural synergy between the two dynasties.

Spread of Sanskrit

Both dynasties played a pivotal role in promoting Sanskrit as the language of administration, literature, and religion. The Gupta-Vakataka alliance ensured the widespread use of Sanskrit in inscriptions, royal decrees, and literary compositions, contributing to the classical age of Indian literature.

Religion and Philosophy

The Vakatakas, like the Guptas, were ardent supporters of Hinduism. Temples dedicated to deities such as Vishnu, Shiva, and Devi were constructed during this period, reflecting a shared religious ethos. The marriage alliance between the two dynasties further strengthened the position of Hindu orthodoxy in central India, although they also showed tolerance toward Buddhism and Jainism.

Political and Military Cooperation

The Gupta-Vakataka alliance had a stabilizing effect on the Indian subcontinent. It ensured peace between two of the most powerful contemporary dynasties, allowing them to focus on governance, cultural patronage, and economic prosperity rather than warfare.

The alliance likely involved a tacit understanding of mutual defense. For instance, the Guptas, facing potential threats from the Hunas in the northwest and other adversaries, could rely on the Vakatakas to maintain stability in the Deccan. Conversely, the Vakatakas benefited from Gupta military support and political backing to consolidate their authority in central India.

Impact of the Relationship

The relationship between the Guptas and the Vakatakas had profound and lasting impacts on Indian history:

Cultural Integration

The Gupta-Vakataka relationship symbolized the integration of northern and southern Indian traditions. The shared cultural practices, particularly in art, architecture, and religion, helped shape a pan-Indian cultural identity.

Administrative Influence

The Vakataka administration adopted several Gupta practices, including efficient governance and bureaucratic organization. This alignment contributed to the uniformity of administrative systems across large parts of India.

Economic Prosperity

The alliance between the Guptas and Vakatakas facilitated trade and economic exchanges across their territories. The stability provided by their cooperation allowed for the growth of trade routes, connecting northern India with the Deccan and beyond.

Continuity of the Classical Age

The collaboration between the two dynasties ensured the continuity of the Golden Age of India, characterized by advancements in science, mathematics, literature, and philosophy. The cultural flourishing of this era owed much to the mutual respect and cooperation between the Guptas and the Vakatakas.

Conclusion

The relationship between the Gupta and Vakataka dynasties is a remarkable example of political alliance and cultural synthesis in ancient Indian history. The marriage alliance between Prabhavatigupta and Rudrasena II not only cemented ties between the two dynasties but also created a platform for the exchange of ideas, traditions, and administrative practices. The Gupta-Vakataka relationship highlights the interconnectedness of ancient Indian polities and their shared commitment to fostering a unified cultural and political ethos. Through their cooperation, these two dynasties laid the groundwork for a classical age that continues to be celebrated for its contributions to Indian civilization.

The Maukharis, rising to prominence in the 6th century CE, carved out a significant political legacy in northern India, especially in the wake of the Gupta Empire’s decline. This era witnessed a nuanced governance structure, military strategies, religious affiliations, and the eventual political upheavals that marked the Maukhari reign.

Rooted in antiquity, the Maukhari family’s political ascendancy emerged in the 6th century CE.

Inscriptions reveal their connections as feudatories of the Guptas, with Kanyakubja as a pivotal center.

Extent of the Kingdom

The Maukhari realm encompassed most of present-day Uttar Pradesh and parts of Bihar.

Ishanavarman’s wars, while defensive, showcased political supremacy in northeastern India.

Religion & Administrative Conditions

As Kshatriyas, the Maukharis staunchly supported Hinduism and traditional social orders.

Kanyakubja flourished as a cosmopolitan town with state support for both Hinduism and Buddhism.

Army and Military Tactics

Maukhari military prowess featured elephants, cavalry, and infantry.

Ishanavarman’s campaigns highlighted a focus on reorganizing the army and deploying elephants strategically.

Downfall of the Dynasty

Alliances and conflicts marked the latter part of the Maukhari rule, especially their association with the Pushyabhutis.

The alliance with Gauda against the Later Guptas led to the fall of Grahavarman, and subsequent conflicts reshaped the political landscape.

Legacy

Despite the decline, remnants of the Maukhari legacy persisted.

Kanyakubja became a political and administrative hub, rivaling Pataliputra, with lasting influence even beyond the Maukhari era.

Shift in Imperial Power

The Maukharis played a pivotal role in shifting the political power center from Magadha to Kanyakubja.

This geographical shift redefined the imperial heartland, setting the stage for later dynasties to recognize Kanyakubja’s importance.

Continued Significance

The developments in Kanyakubja extended beyond the Maukhari era, influencing subsequent kingdoms.

The city’s strategic importance endured, symbolizing imperial power for diverse dynasties like the Pratiharas, Palas, and Rashtrakutas.

The nomadic savages or tribes who lived in the neighbourhood of China were the Hephthalites (the Sanskrit name of which is Hunas). Studies show that the Hunas extended their kingdom from the border of Persia to Khotan in Central Asia. There were two branches of Hunas that advanced towards the west. One branch of the Hunas moved towards the Roman Empire and the other towards India. This branch of the Hunas, which came to India, was referred to as the White Hunas. The invasion of India by the Hunas began about a hundred years after the Kushanas’ invasion. In historical studies, one of the most warlike tribes, popular for their barbarism and cruelty, was the Huna tribe. There were two major invasions of the Hunas in the subcontinent.

The reasons that led to the invasions

While the Gupta Empire ruled over a major part of India, after the death of the Gupta emperor, Samudragupta, there was less control of the Guptas in Western India. During this time, the Hunas armed forces attacked the Gupta dynasty and they were able to win Jammu, Kashmir, Himachal, Rajasthan, Punjab, and parts of Malwa. This way, the Hunas established their kingdom in some parts of India and Tormana was the white Hun leader.

First major invasion of India by the Hunas: 458 AD

The Gupta Empire in India reigned in the Ganges basin during the 5th century, and the Kushan dynasty occupied the area along the Indus. After defeating the Kushanas, the Hunas entered the subcontinent from the Kabul valley. They entered Punjab and the Gupta Empire failed to protect the northeast frontier of the empire and this made easier for the Huns to enter an unguarded entrance in the Gangetic valley, just into the heart of the Gupta Empire. This was in 458 AD. The Hephthalites, known as the Hunas in India kept on invading India until the Gupta ruler Skandagupta repulsed them. The Hunas, under the leadership of Toramana, suffered a crushing defeat by the Gupta emperor Skandagupta.

Second invasion of India by the Hunas: About 470 AD

The Hunas waited till 470 AD, till the death of the Gupta ruler Skandagupta to invade India again in a proper manner. During this time, the Guptas had been ruling over a greater part of India. This time Hunas were under the leadership of Mihirkula (also known, as Mihirgula or the “Indian Attila”). He was the successor and son of Toramana, and known as a very tyrant ruler and a destroyer. This time, the Hunas were successful in their invasion of India. They temporarily overthrew the Gupta Empire. Mihirkula ruled from his capital at Sakal, which is today the modern Sialkot. The Huna power in India collapsed after the defeat of Mihirkula. Mihirkula was defeated successively by two Indian rulers, Yasodharman of Malwa and Narasimhagupta Baladitya of the later Gupta dynasty.

Aftermath of the battles: Winner and Loser

Before the defeat of the Hunas by Skandagupta, the first invasions of the Hunas displaced the Gupta Empire rule from the North Western part of India. This invasion also influenced the chieftains and regional kings to become more ambitious and rebel against the Gupta Empire. The Hunas ruled over Gandhar and central Punjab and also controlled the Kushans. The first Hun king Toramana ruled northern India as far as Malwa in central India. After his death, his son Mihirkula, who destroyed the Gupta Empire, ruled over North Western India for thirty years. However, Mihirakula was driven out of the plains and into Kashmir and died in about 542 A.D. After his death, the political power of the Hunas declined.

The larger implications of the battle

• Toramana, the first white Huna king, conquered Punjab, Rajputana, Kashmir, parts of Doab and Malwa. He ruled and operated the interiors of India by keeping his base at Punjab. During his rule, he reduced the power of a number of local kings and chieftains as his subordinates and assumed the title of “Maharajadhiraja”.
• Some of the provincial governors of the Gupta Empire also joined Toramana during the course of his invasion in India.
• In extensive regions of Sutlej and Yamuna, the coins and inscriptions of Toramana were found.
• However, Toramana’s rule in India did not last long and he was defeated by Skandagupta, which forced him to flee to the other side of India.
• When Toramana was succeeded by his son Mihirkula, he entered and ruined every city and town along the Ganges. The capital town Pataliputra was reduced to a small village. The Hunas persecuted Buddhists and destroyed all the monasteries and the Gupta regime was completely extinguished.
• However, when Mihirkula was defeated by two major rulers Yasodharman and Narasimhagupta Baladitya, he had to leave India forever. The Hunas suffered a great loss.

The overall place and significance of the invasions in the Indian History

The Hunas’ invasion in India had far reaching effects and significance in Indian History, as mentioned below:

• First of all, the Hunas had destroyed the dominance of the Gupta Empire in India and on their feudatories.
• Small kingdoms began to grow and prosper on the ruins of the Gupta Empire.
• The trade connections between the Guptas in India and the Roman Empire also weakened after the Huna invasion that completely devastated the Gupta economy. Due to this, the economic and cultural cities like Pataliputra or Ujjain lost their glory.
• The socio-political and economic life during the later Guptas also deteriorated.
• On the other hand, trade with South East Asia and China prospered through ports like Tamralipta, Kaveri Pattanam, etc.
• There was a racial admixture in India after the Huna invasion and this was one of the most significant effects.
• Various tribes entered India through North West, same as the central Asian tribes, some of whom remained in Northern India and some moved further to the south and the west.
• For the first time, Indian culture got introduced to the Hunas’ martial culture.
• After the Hunas were driven out of India in 528, few of them blended with the Indian population and became a part of the local population, which exists even today such as Gurjaras and the ancestors of some of the Rajput families.

The Huna invasions of India led to socio-economic and cultural transformation of the Indian society as a whole.

INTRODUCTION

In the post Gupta period, a number of new political powers emerged in different parts of north India. Until the rise of Harsha in the early seventh century four kingdoms effectively held power in northern India: the Guptas of Magadha; the Maukharis of Kanauj; the Pushyabhutis of Thanesar; and the Maitrakas of Valabhi. This may give the impression that political authority was very fragmented, and this was the result of the weakening of central authority. But when you look at it from a different angle you will realize that formation of new political powers was a continuous process in early Indian history. These powers, representing different dynasties, established their kingdoms and were often at war with each other.

THE REGIONAL POWERS

The prominent principalities which arose in the post-Gupta period were the Maitrakas, Kalachuris, Gurjaras, Maukharis, and Later Guptas; and the kingdoms of Nepal, Bengal, Assam, and Odisha. Outside the Gupta empire, the kingdoms of Kashmir and Thaneswar and southern Kalinga were prominent. It was not until the beginning of the seventh century C.E. that the ruler of Thaneswar succeeded in establishing a powerful empire in northern India, though for a short period.

Let us discuss these powers briefly:

The Maitrakas of Valabhi

Of all the states that grew out of debris of the Gupta Empire, the kingdom of Valabhi is considered to be one of the ‘most durable’. They were one of the subordinates of the Guptas. The earliest land-grant of the family was the one issued by Maharaja Dronasimha in 502 CE. The extent of the kingdom of Valabhi is uncertain. As all the royal grants were issued from Valabhi, it can be assumed that Valabhi was their capital. A large number of records of this family have come to light, however they are of little historical merit. Therefore not much is known about the Maitrakas.

A record of sixteen grants by Dhruvasena exists, but it does not mention a single event of historical importance. Maharaja Dharapatta, his younger son, succeeded him. He was succeeded by his son, Guhasena. Around 556 CE or 559 CE i.e., during the time of Guhasena, Maitrakas were ruling as an independent power. Hiuen Tsang refers to a particular ruler called Shiladitya. It can be assumed from various references that he held an extensive kingdom. Hiuen Tsang pays tribute to him. He is said to be a “monarch of great administrative ability and of rare kindness and compassion.” He built a Buddhist temple which is considered to be “extremely artistic in structure and ornament,” and held every year a “great religious assembly” to which Buddhists were summoned from all corners.

The Maukharis of Kanauj

The Maukharis held the region of western Ganges plains around Kanauj. Originally, they were tributary rulers who established an independent kingdom, changing their title from maharaja to maharaja-adhiraja, thus imitating the earlier Guptas. Maukhari is the name of a very ancient family or clan and we find references to them in Patanjali’s work and in other early documents. They gained political ascendency towards the end of 5th century CE as Harsha inscription of 554 CE mentions the rise of Yajnavarman from Gaya during this period. The Maukharis after becoming powerful claimed to have descended from Asvapati, referred to in the Mahabharata as king of Madras in central Punjab. Certain archaeological sources indicate that the Maukharis were widely spread over northern India from a very early period. In the sixth century CE a Maukhari family ruled in the neighbourhood of Gaya. Three kings of this family are known from inscriptions found in the Barabar and Nagarjuna Hills in Gaya District. They are Yajna-varman, his son Sardula-varman and the latter’s son Anantavarman who were all feudatories of the Guptas. This is indicated by their title ‘samanta’ which they held. The Maukhari rulers used several titles which are found in various seals and inscriptions which provide us with some information on their genealogy. The Asirgarh Copper seal gives the names of the following rulers: 

1. Maharaja Hari-varman – Jayasvamini 
2. Maharaja Aditya-varman – Harshagupta 
3. Maharaja Isvara-varman – Upagupta 
4. Maharajadhiraja Isana-varman – Lakshmivati 
5. Maharajadhiraja Sarva-varman – Indrabhattarika 
6. Maharajadhiraja – Avanti-varman

The modern province of U.P was the seat of their power. It also included portions of Magadha. The theory that the Maukhari dominion extended up to Sutlej in the west is based on insufficient evidence. Kanauj seems to have been the capital of Maukhari kingdom at least during the reign of Avantivarman and his son. The distinction between the titles given to the first three kings and the others indicates that the reign of Isana-varman marked the beginning of the rise of the family to power and prestige.

The Maukharis ruled as feudatory chiefs in south Bihar and U.P., since the time of Budha-gupta. The disintegration of the Guptas in the early sixth century CE gave them an opportunity to establish their independence. Isanavarman claims to have defeated the Andhras, Gulikas and the Gaudas which indicate extensive military campaigns and great power. He was the first in his family to assume the imperial title of Maharajadhiraja and to issue coins.

The Later Guptas, who came into prominence about the same time, challenged the power of Maukharis. It was an elongated war between the two. The Maukhari king Isanavarman was defeated by Kumaragupta and probably also by Damodaragupta. Sarvavarman, the second son of Isanavarman, is said to have defeated Damodaragupta of the Later Gupta dynasty. Very less is known about the Maukharis after Isana-varman. Banabhatta in Harshacharita has remarked that the Maukharis stood at the head of all royal houses, and Avantivarman was the pride of that race. This implies that the Maukharis enjoyed sovereignty till the beginning of the seventh century CE.

Isanavarman, his son Sarvavarman and Avantivarman (Sarvavarman’s son) were powerful kings and ruled over considerable territory. The chronology of the rulers of Maukharis is constructed on very limited sources and the following chronology can be accepted: 

1. Isana-varman — c. CE 550-576 
2. Sarva-varman — c. CE 576-580 
3. Avanti-varman — c. CE 580-600

There is uncertainty regarding the successor of Avantivarman. Dated coins of Isanavarman, Sarvavarman and Avantivarman have come to light but the readings have been unclear. The last Maukhari king was Grahavarman who was married to Rajyasri, the daughter of Prabhakaravardhana of Thanesar and sister of the famous ruler Harshavardhana. The Malava king Devagupta attacked Kanauj and killed Grahavarman bringing the Maukhari kingdom to an end.

Harshavardhana and his Reign

The Pushyabhutis ruled in Thanesar, north of Delhi. The Pushyabhuti family became influential on the accession of Prabhakaravardhana. From Banabhatta’s Harshacharita, we learn that Prabhakaravardhana was also known as Pratapasila and that he had another son named Krishna and a daughter named Rajyasri. Harshavardhana was the most powerful ruler of this dynasty.

The Later Guptas of Magadha

From around the middle of sixth century CE till about 675 CE the kings who ruled Magadha were known as Magadha Guptas or Later Guptas. The Later Guptas of Magadha were not part of the main Gupta dynasty, but were a minor line having the same name. The Later Guptas were also feudatories of the Imperial Guptas like the Maukharis. An inscription found at Aphsad, near Gaya gives the following genealogy of the kings of this dynasty: 

1. Krishnagupta 
2. Harshagupta 
3. Jivitagupta 
4. Kumaragupta 
5. Damodaragupta 
6. Mahasenagupta 
7. Madhavagupta 
8. Adityasena

Aphsad inscription describes the military achievements of the first three kings. It is not clear whether these rulers carried out such campaigns independently or as feudatories. Harshagupta had to fight the Hunas; his son Jivagupta fought against the Lichchhavis of Nepal and Gaudas of Bengal. Jivagupta’s successor king Kumaragupta defeated Maukhari king Isanavarman. The next king Damodargupta, son of Kumaragupta, was defeated and killed by Maukhari king Sarvavarman and lost a portion of Magadha. For some time the successors of Damodargupta retreated to Malwa because of the Maukharis but they again established their supremacy in Magadha. The most powerful ruler was Adityasena, who ruled in Magadha in 672 CE, a date which seems to occur in one of his inscriptions. This sovereignty is further supported by the fact that Adityasena assumed the title of Maharajadhiraja. His empire included Magadha, Anga and Bengal. It is just possible that his kingdom included a portion of eastern Uttar Pradesh. He was a Parama-Bhagvata and got a temple of Vishnu constructed. An inscription which was engraved in a temple at Deoghar refers to his conquest of the Chola country and also performance of several sacrifices, including three Asvamedhas. But this record alone cannot establish the fact that Adityasena carried out victorious campaigns against the Cholas. Names of three successors of Adityasena – Devagupta, Vishnu-gupta and Jivita-gupta have come down to us. All continued with the imperial title.

Vishnugupta ruled for at least 17 years. Jivita-gupta probably extended his authority to some territory on the banks of Gomati which once formed part of the Maukhari kingdom. No successor of Jivita-gupta is known, and the end of the Later Guptas is ambiguous. When Yasovarman of Kanauj went for his campaign in the east in the second quarter of the eighth century CE, he found one king in possession of Gauda and Magadha. It has been suggested that this ruler who was defeated at the hands of Yasovarman described in the poem Gaudavaho (killing of the king of Gauda), is none other than Jivitagupta. The power of the Later Guptas came to an end in or shortly before the second quarter of the eighth century CE when the last ruler Jivitagupta was defeated either by a king of Gauda or king Yasovarman of Kanauj.

Yasodharman of Kanauj

During the reign of Kumaragupta I, his feudatory Bandhuvarman ruled over Mandasor as it was a major centre of western Malwa. He belonged to the Aulikara family which perhaps ruled there up to the beginning of the sixth century CE. Two stone pillar inscriptions from Mandasor in Madhya Pradesh, one of which is dated in 532 CE refer to a powerful king Yasodharman. His early history is unknown. One of his court-poets, Vakpati, wrote a poetical work in Prakrit which narrated his victorious campaign. His work forms the chief source of our knowledge of his life and reign. The narration of Vakpati seems to be an exaggeration when he says that Yasodharman conquered all the regions in south and north. But there is evidence that corroborate his conquest in the east. An inscription found at Nalanda indicates that his authority extended over Magadha. It also implies that Yasodharman carried out his campaign as far as Bengal and defeated the ruler of Gauda.

Though his campaigns in the south seem to be doubtful but there are references that might form the basis of it. The inscriptions of the Chalukya king Vijayaditya, great-grandson of the famous Pulakesin II refer to a fight with a king who is not named but is described as the Lord of the North, or whole of Uttarapatha (sakalottarapatha-natha). The battle most probably took place towards the close of 695 CE. The Chalukya king defeated the enemy and is said to have obtained from him ‘the symbols of the rivers Ganga and Yamuna’, the Palidhvaja banner and other emblems of imperial power. The reference to Ganga and the Yamuna shows that the battle probably took place in the Ganga-Yamuna doab. On the basis of such information it can be assumed that the ruler referred to here as Lord of the Uttarapatha is Yasodharman. At the same time the victory of the Chalukyan king mentioned in Chalukya inscriptions should not be taken as a wholly true fact. Many sources are available which lead to the conclusion that in the northern campaign Vijayaditya, the Chalukya crown-prince, was taken captive by the enemy. Yasodharman is generally identified with Yi-sha-fu-mo, king of Central India, who sent his minister, the Buddhist monk Pu-ta-sin (Buddhasena), to the court of China in 731 CE. Lalitaditya, the king of Kashmir, sent an embassy to China in 736 CE, and probably referred to Yasodharman as an ally. It might be assumed that both the kings asked for Chinese help and support against the Arabs and Tibetans who were paving their way to India. If this theory is considered then one can assume that he tried to extend his power to the west.

Yasodharman was victorious against the Arabs of Sindh. Yasodharman along with Lalityaditya fought successfully against foreign powers. But soon their alliance broke. Rajatarangini narrates the struggle between Yasodharman and Lalityaditya. From the narration mentioned in Rajatarangini, it seems that Yasodharman was defeated at the hands of Lalityaditya. Yasodharman also lost his kingdoms to him. But it is not clear whether he was slain or not. The date of Yasodharman is unclear; his reign may be placed between CE 700 and 740.

Kashmir

To the east of Sindhu, Kashmir was the first important state. Kashmir has its history written from the earliest times in a text called Rajatarangini. Rajatarangini was written by Kalhana in the twelfth century CE. The chronology mentioned by Kalhana indicates that nearly the whole of the Gupta age is covered by the reign of a single king of the Gonanda dynasty who is said to have ruled for 300 years. This seems to be a fallacy. The next two reigns of two brothers covering a period of 80 years is also doubtful. The subsequent period is comparatively reliable. The new dynasty which Kalhana mentions is the Karkota or Naga dynasty, founded by Durlabhavardhana. He married the daughter of the last king of the Gonanda dynasty named Baladitya. As Baladitya had no son Durlabhavardhana succeeded to the throne (CE 627).

Huien Tsang, the Chinese pilgrim gives a very long account of Kashmir. He visited Kashmir during the reign of Durlabhavardhana. Five other states – Takshasila (Rawalpindi district), Simhapura (Salt Range region), Urasa (Hazara or Abbottabad district), Pan-nu-tso (Punch), and Rajapura (Rajaori) were under Kashmir. Thus Durlabhavardhana ruled over not only Kashmir proper, but also a part of western and north-western Punjab as well. He was succeeded by his son, Durlabhaka. Durlabhavardhana and Durlabhaka reigned for 36 and 50 years respectively. Durlabhaka was succeeded by his eldest son Chandrapida. During his period Arab were encroaching upon the frontiers of Kashmir. In 713 CE he sent an envoy to the Chinese emperor asking for aid against the Arabs. Though he did not receive any support from the Chinese, he was able to protect his kingdom from the Arabs. As mentioned by Kalhana, King Chandrapida was known for his piety and justice. Kalhana mentions that when the king proposed to build a temple, a tanner refused to give up his hut which was situated on the site. When the matter was reported to the king, he considered his own officers to be at fault and not the tanner. His reign is said to have been a period of humane activities. After his death, his younger brother succeeded the throne. But his ruling years are said to be full of ‘cruel’ and ‘bloody’ deeds. He was followed by his younger brother Lalitaditya Muktapida, the ‘greatest’ king of the dynasty.

Lalitaditya ascended the throne about CE 724. He mainly concentrated on expeditions during his reign. He entered into alliance with Yasodharman and defeated the Tibetans. Lalitaditya was also successful against the mountain tribes on the north and north-western frontier of his kingdom, such as the Dards, Kambojas and Turks. The most powerful expedition was against Yasodharman as already mentioned. It made him the master of Kanauj. After defeating Yasodharman, he proceeded towards the eastern ocean and reached Kalinga. The king of Gauda probably acknowledged his suzerainty without a fight. After reaching the bank of Kaveri he even conquered some of the islands. In the west he overran the seven Konkanas and advanced as far as Dvaraka (in the western extreme of Kathiawar Peninsula). He also conquered Avanti and many other states till he reached the hilly regions and the northwest. Here he conquered the Kambojas, Tukharas (Turks), Bhauttas (Tibetans), Daradas and also a king called Mammuni. It might be a probable fact that Mammuni, whom he is said to have defeated thrice, refers to an Arab ruler. His conquests made the kingdom of Kashmir one of the greatest empire after the Gupta Empire in northern India. Kashmirians chose to call him the ‘universal monarch’. He adorned his kingdom with beautiful towns, and decorating the towns with fine buildings, monasteries, temples and images of gods. Kalhana’s account implies that he was a celebrated ruler. But at the same time Kalhana also mentions two accounts that reflect his dark side. Once when he was drunk he ordered the town of Pravarapura to be burnt down. Afterwards while he was sober, he repented it, and was glad to find that the ministers had disobeyed his orders.

The second incident is gruesome. He summoned the king of Bengal (Gauda) to Kashmir and promised him safe-conduct and made the image of Vishnu Panhasakesava as the surety for his promise. But he got the same king assassinated. It is difficult to find any motive behind this. A few devoted followers of the murdered king undertook the long journey from Bengal to Kashmir, and endowed the temple of the god who had been made the surety. The priests closed the gates, but they were forced open. The Bengali heroes reached the statue of Vishnu Ramasvamin mistaking it for that of Panhasakesava. They broke it into pieces. They were all mercilessly cut to pieces by the Kashmir soldiers who had just arrived from the capital. Kalhana recognizes the men from Bengal who came all the way for revenge and their act of courage, love and determination for their king. Kalhana says,

“What of the long journey which had to be accomplished and what of the devotion for the dead temple of Ramasvamin is seen empty, whereas the world is filled with the fame of the Gauda heroes.”

Lalitaditya died around CE 760. His successors were weak and were unable to maintain the prestige and honour of the family. The dynasty, however, continued to rule over Kashmir till about the middle of the ninth century CE.

The struggle between the Maukharis and the later Guptas marks a critical chapter in the political history of early medieval India, showcasing the turbulence and fragmentation that followed the decline of the Gupta Empire. This struggle highlights the contest for regional dominance in northern India during the 6th and 7th centuries CE. While the Gupta dynasty had reached its zenith during the reigns of rulers like Chandragupta II and Samudragupta, the later Guptas faced the challenge of maintaining their authority in the face of internal decline and external aggression. The Maukharis emerged as a significant rival power in this period, vying for control of the fertile Gangetic plains and key strategic regions.

Historical Background of the Later Guptas

The Gupta Empire, often celebrated as the “Golden Age” of India, began to decline in the late 5th century CE due to multiple factors, including:

1. Huna invasions (led by rulers like Toramana and Mihirakula), which weakened the empire’s military and economic stability.
2. Internal fragmentation as regional governors and feudatories sought autonomy.

By the 6th century CE, the Gupta Empire had fragmented into smaller kingdoms, and the later Guptas retained control only over a reduced core territory in Magadha and parts of Bihar. Unlike their illustrious predecessors, the later Guptas faced significant challenges from emerging powers such as the Maukharis, who aspired to dominate the same regions.

Rise of the Maukharis

The Maukharis were originally feudatories of the Guptas but gradually rose to prominence, declaring independence and establishing their rule in the Gangetic plains. They initially controlled regions like Kannauj, which was a strategically important city due to its location along trade routes and its cultural significance.

Under rulers like Ishanavarman and Avantivarman, the Maukharis expanded their territory, challenging the later Guptas for supremacy. The rise of the Maukharis signified the fragmentation of the political unity established by the earlier Gupta rulers, as multiple regional powers vied for control.

The Struggle Between the Maukharis and Later Guptas

The conflict between the Maukharis and the later Guptas was rooted in their competing claims over Magadha, Bihar, and the Gangetic plains, regions that were agriculturally productive and culturally significant.

The Role of Ishanavarman

The struggle gained momentum during the reign of Ishanavarman, the first prominent Maukhari ruler to assert independence. Ishanavarman’s military campaigns brought him into direct conflict with the later Guptas, as he sought to expand Maukhari influence into territories that had traditionally been under Gupta control. His aggressive expansionism marked the beginning of open hostilities between the two dynasties.

Later Gupta Counterattacks

The later Guptas, under rulers like Kumaragupta III and Vishnugupta, resisted the Maukhari challenge. Despite their diminished resources and weakened military capabilities, the Guptas launched counterattacks to retain their hold over Magadha and adjacent regions. However, their ability to effectively challenge the Maukharis was limited by internal instability and the loss of key territories to other rivals.

Geopolitical Dynamics and Shifting Alliances

The struggle between the Maukharis and the later Guptas must be understood in the broader context of the multi-polar political environment of early medieval India. Several other powers, such as the Pushyabhutis of Thanesar, the Gaudas of Bengal, and the Vakatakas in central India, influenced the course of events.

Pushyabhuti Intervention

The rivalry between the Maukharis and later Guptas took a new turn with the intervention of the Pushyabhuti dynasty, led by Harsha’s father, Prabhakaravardhana. The Pushyabhutis initially allied with the Maukharis, further complicating the Guptas’ position. This triangular power struggle eventually paved the way for Harsha’s ascendancy, marking the end of the Maukharis as a significant power and the further decline of the later Guptas.

Decline of the Maukharis and Later Guptas

Both the Maukharis and the later Guptas eventually succumbed to the forces of political fragmentation and external pressures.

Fate of the Maukharis

The Maukharis, despite their initial successes, could not sustain their dominance. The marriage alliance between Harsha’s sister, Rajyashri, and the Maukhari ruler Grahavarman brought the two dynasties closer, but it also exposed the Maukharis to the ambitions of more powerful neighbors. After Grahavarman’s death in conflict with the Gaudas, Harsha assumed control over Maukhari territories, effectively absorbing them into the Pushyabhuti realm.

Fate of the Later Guptas

The later Guptas managed to hold on to parts of Magadha and Bihar but gradually faded into obscurity by the late 6th century CE. Their inability to withstand the combined pressures of the Maukharis, Pushyabhutis, and other regional powers marked the end of their political significance.

Cultural Impacts of the Struggle

Despite the political instability, the struggle between the Maukharis and the later Guptas contributed to the cultural and religious continuity of the period. Both dynasties were patrons of Brahmanical Hinduism, promoting the construction of temples and the composition of Sanskrit texts. The turmoil also encouraged regional variations in art, literature, and administration, reflecting the diversity of early medieval India.

Conclusion

The struggle between the Maukharis and later Guptas reflects the fragmented and competitive nature of Indian politics in the early medieval period. The conflict underscores the challenges faced by the later Guptas in maintaining their empire’s legacy and highlights the rise of new regional powers like the Maukharis. While neither dynasty ultimately emerged as the dominant force, their rivalry played a pivotal role in shaping the political and cultural dynamics of northern India, paving the way for the rise of subsequent powers like the Pushyabhutis under Harsha. This period, marked by both conflict and cultural continuity, serves as a bridge between the classical age of the Guptas and the early medieval era of Indian history.