Post-Gupta Period & Vardhana Dynasty (c. 550–647 CE)
“This era marked the transition from classical empires to early medieval regional kingdoms, with Harshavardhana rising as a notable ruler.”
Background
- After the decline of the Gupta Empire (mid-6th century CE), India was fragmented into regional kingdoms.
- Among them, the **Vardhana Dynasty** rose to prominence under **Harshavardhana** in the 7th century CE.
- His reign is considered a bridge between ancient and medieval Indian history.
Harshavardhana (606–647 CE)
- He succeeded his brother **Rajyavardhana** as the ruler of **Thanesar (Haryana)** and later **Kannauj**.
- Expanded his empire across **North India**, except **Deccan**, where he was defeated by **Pulakesin II** (Chalukya ruler).
- Maintained diplomatic relations with China. The Chinese traveler **Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang)** visited India during his reign.
- Held the **Kannauj Assembly** and **Prayag Assembly**, promoting religious tolerance and charity.
Religion, Society, and Administration
- Though a Hindu by birth (Shaivite), Harsha showed tolerance toward **Buddhism** and supported **Nalanda University**.
- The society was divided into varnas; Brahmins held high positions in administration.
- He personally distributed wealth during public assemblies every five years at Prayag.
Literary and Cultural Contributions
- Harshavardhana himself was a **Sanskrit scholar and playwright**.
- Wrote:
- Nagananda
- Ratnavali
- Priyadarshika
- His court poet **Banabhatta** wrote **Harshacharita** (biography of Harsha) and **Kadambari**.
Decline After Harsha
- Harsha died in 647 CE without an heir.
- His empire disintegrated and North India returned to political instability until the rise of Rajput kingdoms.
Previous Year Questions
- SSC CGL 2018: Which Chinese traveler visited India during Harsha's reign?
- Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang)
- RRB NTPC 2021: Who was defeated by Pulakesin II?
- Harshavardhana
- HSSC 2020: Who authored Harshacharita?
- Banabhatta
- SSC JE 2017: Where was Harsha's capital?
- Kannauj
- SSC CHSL 2021: Harsha belonged to which dynasty?
- Vardhana Dynasty
- RRB ALP 2018: Name the famous Buddhist university supported by Harsha.
- Nalanda
- SSC GD 2022: Harsha held which religious assembly in Prayag?
- Maha Moksha Parishad (Prayag Assembly)
- SSC CPO 2020: Harsha was originally a follower of which religion?
- Shaivism (Hinduism)
- UPSC CDS 2021: What is the name of the drama written by Harsha about Buddhist themes?
- Nagananda
- SSC MTS 2021: Banabhatta was the court poet of which ruler?
- Harshavardhana
- SSC CGL 2022: What was the outcome of Harsha’s campaign against the Deccan?
- He was defeated by Pulakesin II
- RRB Group D 2019: Harsha’s rule ended in which year?
- 647 CE