1. Introduction
2. The Regional Powers
2.1. The Maitrakas of Valabhi
2.2. The Maukharis of Kanauj
2.3. Harshavardhana and his Reign
2.4. The Later Guptas of Magadha
2.5. Yasodharman of Kanauj
2.6. Kashmir
3. Nature of the Post-Gupta Period
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Topic – Later Guptas (Notes)
Subject – History
(Ancient Indian History)
Table of Contents
Introduction
- In the post-Gupta period, a number of new political powers emerged across different regions of north India. Until the rise of Harsha in the early seventh century, four major kingdoms effectively held power in northern India: the Guptas of Magadha, the Maukharis of Kanauj, the Pushyabhutis of Thanesar, and the Maitrakas of Valabhi.
- At first glance, this situation may appear to reflect a high degree of political fragmentation, resulting from the weakening of central authority. However, when viewed from a broader historical perspective, it becomes evident that the formation of new political powers was actually a continuous process in early Indian history.
- These emerging powers, representing various dynasties, established their own kingdoms and frequently engaged in wars with one another.
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, 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.
The Maitrakas of Valabhi
- Of all the states that grew out of the debris of the Gupta Empire, the kingdom of Valabhi is considered one of the most durable. They were subordinates of the Guptas. The earliest land-grant of the family was issued by Maharaja Dronasimha (502 CE).
- The extent of the kingdom is uncertain, but as all grants were issued from Valabhi, it was likely their capital.
- A record of sixteen grants by Dhruvasena exists, but without historical events. He was succeeded by Maharaja Dharapatta, and later by Guhasena. Around 556–559 CE, during Guhasena’s time, the Maitrakas became independent.
- Hiuen Tsang refers to a ruler called Shiladitya, described as a monarch of great administrative ability, kindness, and compassion. He built a Buddhist temple noted for its artistic excellence and held annual religious assemblies for Buddhists from all regions.
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