After the fall of the Guptas, North India was politically fragmented until Harshavardhana (606–647 A.D.) united much of it under his rule. He established a strong kingdom in northern India with Kanauj as his capital. Harsha is remembered not only as a ruler but also as a patron of religion, literature, and culture.
Table of Contents
Sources
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Harshacharita by Banabhatta, his court poet, provides details of his life and reign.
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Travel accounts of Hiuen Tsang (Xuanzang), the Chinese pilgrim, describe the administration, society, and religious conditions of India during Harsha’s time.
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Inscriptions such as the Banskhera inscription also shed light on his administration.
Harsha’s Reign
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Capital: Kanauj.
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Extended control over Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Orissa.
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Tried to expand southwards but was defeated by Pulakesin II (Chalukya king) on the banks of the Narmada.
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Maintained a large army and emphasized welfare activities.
Social Life
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Society was divided into castes with Brahmins enjoying high status.
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Landowners, peasants, artisans, and traders formed other groups.
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The practice of untouchability continued.
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Women’s position declined further compared to the Gupta period, but education for women still existed in some regions.
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Public hospitals and rest houses were maintained by the state, reflecting welfare measures.
Religious Life
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Harsha himself started as a Shaivite but later embraced Mahayana Buddhism.
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He was tolerant towards all religions and promoted religious harmony.
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Organized great religious assemblies, such as the one at Kanauj, attended by scholars and monks.
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Built monasteries, stupas, and patronized Buddhist learning centers like Nalanda University.
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Hiuen Tsang’s accounts confirm the flourishing of both Hinduism and Buddhism under Harsha.
Cultural Life
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Harsha was a scholar and patron of learning.
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Himself authored three Sanskrit plays: Ratnavali, Nagananda, and Priyadarsika.
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His court was adorned with scholars like Banabhatta (Harshacharita, Kadambari) and Mayura (poet).
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Nalanda University reached its peak of glory during his reign.
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Art and architecture developed; stupas, monasteries, and temples were built.
Key Takeaway
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Harshavardhana revived political unity in north India after the Guptas.
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His reign is remembered for religious tolerance, patronage of learning, welfare activities, and cultural achievements.
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Through the accounts of Banabhatta and Hiuen Tsang, Harsha’s era stands as a bridge between the Gupta Golden Age and the early medieval period.