essay on gupta administration

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Governance and Administration of the Gupta Empire: Structure and Function

The Gupta Empire emerged in ancient India around the 3rd century AD , following the decline of previous dynasties like the Satavahanas and Kushans . Despite not being as vast as the Mauryan Empire, the Guptas ruled with a strong central government , uniting North India for over a hundred years. Their administration, marked by political titles and a feudal system , played a crucial role in shaping the empire’s governance and stability.

Administration of the Gupta Empire: Structure, Officials and Judicial System

A. emergence of the gupta empire.

• Murundas were kinsmen of Kushans who ruled central India from 230 AD to 250 AD after the decline of Kushans in North India.
• Guptas were possibly the feudatories of Kushans in Uttar Pradesh , with centre of power in Prayaga .
• It is mostly believed that Guptas were of Vaisya origin.
• Strong Central Governance: Though the Gupta Empire was not as large as the Mauryan Empire , it kept North India united for more than a century. 

• It featured a strong central government , bringing many kingdoms under its hegemony.
• It also covered major parts of the West and Northwest and reached the East coast of Deccan as f ar as the Pallava Kingdom.
• Reasons for the Rise of the Gupta Empire
• Availability of fertile land in Madhyadesha region covering Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
• They had access to iron ores from south Bihar and Central India.
• They had proximity to areas in North India which were carrying Silk trade with the Byzantine Empire.

B. Administration of the Gupta Empire

• Titles and Royal Authority: During the Gupta age, political hierarchies can be identified by the titles adopted. Kings assumed the titles Paramabhattaraka, Maharajadhiraja, Parameswara, Samrat and Chakravartin .
• Divine Claims of Gupta Kings: Some historians have suggested that the Gupta Kings claimed divine status . For example, Samudragupta was compared to Purusha (Supreme Being) in the Allahabad inscription .
• Strong Central Government: It featured a strong central government , bringing many kingdoms under its hegemony.
• Feudalism: as an institution began to take root during this period.
• Recruitment: to various posts was not only confined to the upper varnas.
• Most posts became hereditary, weakening royal control.
• Kumaramatyas: The most important officers of the empire were Kumaramatyas, who were possibly paid in cash.
• King was looked upon as God Vishnu, the protector and preserver.
• They were connected with Gods through epithets like Parama-Daivata (the foremost worshipper of the gods) and params-bhagavata (the foremost worshiper of Vasudeva Krishna) and Parameshvara.
• Kingship was hereditary, but there was the absence of a firm practice of primogeniture.
• Ministers and Officials
• The king was assisted in his administration by a council consisting of a chief minister , a Senapati or commander-in-chief of the army and other important officials.
• The king maintained close contact with the provincial administration through a class of officials called Kumaramatyas and Ayuktas .
• Kumaramatyas: The term ‘Kumaramatya’ occurs in six Vaishali seals, an d he was associa ted with an office (Adikarana) of his own.
• He seems to be important among Amatyas and equivalent in status to princes of royal blood. 
• Kumaramatyas were attached to the king , crown prince, revenue department or province
• Individuals holding the rank of Kumaramatya had additional designations as well. 
• Example: Harisena (son of Dhruvabhuti, a mahadandanayaka) was a Kumaramatya, Sandhivigrahaka and Mahadandanayaka.

Officers in the Gupta Empire

• “ Lokpala ”, also possibly referred to as a provincial governor.
• Standing Army and Feudatory Support: The king maintained a standing army, which was supplemented occasionally by the forces of feudatories.
• Adoption of Kushan Military Techniques: The Guptas learned the use of saddle, reins, buttoned coats, trousers and boots from the Kushans. All these gave them mobility and made them excellent horsemen .
• Emphasis on Cavalry and Horse Archery: In the Army, chariots and elephants took backstage. The cavalry and horse archery came to the forefront.
• Military Designations: Seals and inscriptions mention military designations such as Baladhikrita and Mahabaladhikrita (commander of infantry and cavalry). 
• Senapati: The standard term “ Senapati ” does not occur in Gupta inscriptions, but the term could be found in some Vakataka epigraphs. 
• A Vaishali seal mentions the Ranabhandagar-Adhikarana , which was the office of the military storehouse . 

C. Division of the Empire (Bhuktis →Vishyas→Vithi→Villages)

• Provinces (Bhuktis)
• The Gupta Empire was divided into provinces known as Deshas or Bhuktis (provinces), which were administered by Uparikas (governors). 
• Uparika carried on the administration with control over the military machinery as well. 
• Damodarpur Plates: mention Uparika with the title of maharaja, which indicates his high status and rank in the administrative hierarchy.
• Eran pillar Inscription of Budhagupta : dated Gupta year 165 AD, refers to Maharaja Surashmichandra as a Lokpal, governing the land between the Kalinndi and Narmada rivers.
• Division of Provinces: The bhuktis or provinces were divided into districts known as Vishayas , which were headed by officers known as Vishyapatis.  
• Sometimes, even the kings directly appointed the Vishyapatis. 
• Prominent members of the town assisted the Vishyapati with administrative duties.
• Guilds looked after their own affairs.
• They punished the members for violations of the law of the guild.
• Ayuktakas and Vithi-Mahattaras: refer to officials in these areas. 
• Gramika and Gramadhyaksha : At the village level, villagers chose these functionaries.
• Mahattara: The Damodarpur copper plate of the reign of Budhagupta mentions an Ashtabula-Adhikarana (a board of eight members ) headed by the Mahattara or village headman (sometimes also referred as the head of a family community). 
•   Sanchi Inscription: of the time of Chandragupta II mentions the Panchmandali, which may have been a corporate body .
• The charters issued for vassals living on the fringe of the empire had the Royal ‘Garuda’ seal.
• Feudatory Obligations: They had obligations like personal attendance to the king, paying him a tribute, and presenting daughters for marriage.

D. Judicial System

• Legal Development: It was far more developed than earlier times, and for the first time, civil and criminal law were clearly demarcated.
• Theft and Adultery: came under criminal law, and property disputes came under civil law.
• Inheritance Laws: Elaborate Laws were laid down about inheritance.
• Variety of Courts: There were different courts like Karana, Adhikarana, Aharmasana etc.
• Role of the King in Justice: The King was the upholder of the law and tried the case with the help of Brahamana priests.
• Guild Governance: The guilds of artisans, merchants, etc., were governed by their own laws.
• Varna-Based Legal System: Laws were based on differences in varnas, and culprits belonging to a higher Varna got less punishment.
• Emphasis on Mild Punishments: Punishments were not severe, and imposing a fine was a common punishment.

Conclusion 

The Gupta Empire left a lasting legacy in ancient Indian history through its efficient administration and governance . With a centralized government structure , hierarchical titles, and a well-defined feudal system, the Guptas maintained order and stability across their realms. Their judicial system , advancements in governance, and innovative administrative practices set a benchmark for future dynasties, leaving behind a significant imprint on the political landscape of ancient India .

UPDATED :     

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Gupta Administration - Ancient India History Notes

Amruta Patil

Aug 9, 2024

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Gupta Empire covered much of the Indian subcontinent between 319 and 467 CE had top to bottom administrative hierarchy. The highest authority in the Gupta dynasty was the king, vested with political, military, and judicial powers. In this article, we will discuss Gupta Administration which will be significant in understanding the administrative structure of Gupta empire which is part of for UPSC Civil services exam syllabus.

Gupta Empire in brief

• The Gupta Empire, one of the most influential dynasties in ancient Indian history, thrived during the Golden Age of India from the early 4th century CE to the early 6th century CE .
• Founded by Gupta, the empire reached its zenith between 319 and 467 CE, covering a significant portion of the Indian subcontinent. The Gupta rulers, particularly Chandragupta I, Samudragupta, Chandragupta II, and Skandagupta, played pivotal roles in shaping the empire's success.
• This period is often regarded as the Golden Age due to the remarkable advancements in various fields, including art, science, literature, and philosophy.
• The Gupta Empire witnessed a flourishing of Indian culture, marked by significant achievements in literature, particularly evident in the works of the renowned Sanskrit poet Kalidasa.
• However, like many empires, the Gupta Empire eventually declined, with factors such as invasions, internal conflicts, and economic challenges playing a role in its downfall.
• Despite its eventual decline, the legacy of the Gupta Empire left an indelible mark on the cultural and intellectual heritage of ancient India.
• The empire, known by various names such as Rajya, Rashtra, Desha, Mandala, Prithvi, and Avani , exhibited a complex system of provinces and subdivisions.
• It was divided into 26 provinces, which were styled as Bhukti, Pradesha and Bhoga .

Gupta Administration - Features

King as highest authority.

• The highest authority in the Gupta dynasty was the king, vested with political, military, and judicial powers. (Monarchy was the dominant form).

• The authority of the king was checked by the council of ministers known as mantri parishad., who advised the king to follow Rajya Dharma.
• Mantri Parishad: Ministerial council was called Mantri Parishad . It was made up of high-ranking officials ( Amatyas )such as the kumaramatya and the sandhivigrahika .
• The Gupta Empire was divided into Rajya, Rashtra, Desha, and Mandala. With these decentralized administrative divisions; the Guptas were able to command their domains efficiently. Under them, the northern territories of India were consolidated under one political entity.

Administrative divisions and governing Officers

Provincial administration

• The empire was divided into provinces called 'bhuktis' .
• The king directly appointed the uparika, who in turn frequently appointed the district administration and the district board.
• Uparika continued to rule "with the enjoyment of the rule consisting of elephants, horses, and soldiers," implying control over military machinery as well.
• The uparika's use of the title maharaja on three Damodarpur plates indicates his high status and position in the administrative hierarchy.
• The bhuktis were further classified as 'Vishyas' .

District Administration

• 'Vishayas', were overseen by a Vishayapati.
• Vishayapatis were appointed by the provincial governor or, in some cases, the king himself to control the vishayas.
• The Vishayapati was responsible for maintaining law and order, collecting taxes, and overseeing local administration.
• The vishyapatis were sometimes directly appointed by the kings. The vishyapati was assisted in administrative duties by prominent members of the town.
• The Budhagupta Eran pillar inscription , dated Gupta year 165 CE, refers to Maharaja Surashmichandra as a lokpala , ruling over the land between the Kalinndi and Narmada rivers.
• Lokpala appears to be a provincial governor in this context.

Administrative Unit Below district level

• Clusters of settlements known as vithi, bhumi, pathaka, and peta were the administrative units below the district level.
• Vithis: Multiple villages were grouped into ‘ Vithis ’,sub-dristricts or modern day blocks.
• Gram: The bhuktis were further classified as villages 'Gram' .The village administration was overseen by the village headman ‘Gramika’. Unlike the Mauryan period, the administration in the Gupta period appears to have been managed from the ground up.
• At the local level, the administration was carried out by village councils or Grama Sabhas. These councils were responsible for managing local affairs, resolving disputes, and ensuring the well-being of the community.
• There are references to officials known as ayuktakas and vithi-mahattaras . Villagers elected functionaries such as gramika and gramadhyaksha .
• The Damodarpur copper plate from the reign of Budhagupta mentions an ashtakula-adhikarana (a board of eight members) headed by the mahattara.
• Mahattara has several meanings, including village elder, village headman, and head of a family community.
• The panchmandali , which may have been a corporate body, is mentioned in a Sanchi inscription from the time of Chandragupta II.

Administration in cities

• The administration of the cities was assigned to a Parishad headed by Nagararakshaka, who was subordinate to Purapala Uparika. The Avasthika was the superintendent of Dharamsalas.
• From the Damodarpur copper plate, we get information about the local administration of the Guptas.
• The district headquarters was Adhisthanas, and the court at this level was Adhikarnas.
• The information on the administration at the Vithi level is provided in the Kalaikuri inscription. Some inscriptions from the time of the Skandagupta also tell us about the administration of that period.

Centralized Administration - Ministers and Other Officials

• Mantri Mukhya - Prime Minister
• Sandhivigrahika - Minister in Charge of Peace and War who was in charge of contact and correspondence with other states, including initiating wars and concluding alliances and treaties.
• Akshapataladhikrita - Minister in Charge of Records
• Mahabaladhikrita - Minister in Charge of the Military
• Mahadandanayaka or Dandanayaka - Senior Judicial
• The Allahabad prashasti refers to the Sabha , a ministerial assembly or council.
• High-ranking officials were referred to as dandanayakas , while mahadandanayakas were high-ranking judicial or military officers.
• One of the seals mentions a mahadandanayaka named Agnigupta . The Allahabad prashasti refers to three mahadandanayakas. All of this suggests that these positions were hereditary in nature.
• Another person was given the title mahashvapati (commander of the cavalry), indicating military duties.
• Official ranks and designations are mentioned on seals and inscriptions, but their precise meaning is often unknown.

Revenue Administration

• The Gupta rulers implemented a sophisticated revenue system to ensure economic stability.
• The land revenue, known as Bhaga, was collected from the peasants and was usually one-sixth or one-fourth of the agricultural produce.
• The revenue administration was overseen by officers known as Samahartas or revenue collectors.
• besides Bhaga other taxes during the period were terms Bhoga, Kara, and Sulka.
• Udranga was a fixed tax (Kathiawad copper plate dated towards the end of the 6th century C.E informs us that the professions related to cloth, armor, dye, weaving, and shoemaking were taxed).
• The taxes paid in cash were known as Hiranya.
• It is generally believed that the common man was overloaded with taxes.
• In the absence of cash salaries, land grants with hereditary rights were given to various administrators in this period.
• Largely, the Brahmins who received lands were exempted from paying their taxes.
• A large number of wastelands were brought under cultivation during this period. The rulers of this period also focused on irrigation methods to increase production.

Judicial Administration

• The judicial system in the Gupta Empire was based on the principles of Dharma, and justice was dispensed through a well-organized legal system.
• The king was the ultimate authority, but local judges known as Dharmadhyakshas presided over legal matters at the district level.
• The legal system aimed to ensure fairness and uphold the principles of righteousness.
• Vaishali seal mentions the dandapashika's adhikarana (office), which could have been a district-level police station.

Military administration

• Military designations like baladhikrita and mahabaladhikrita (commander of infantry and cavalry) are mentioned on seals and inscriptions.
• The term "senapati" does not appear in Gupta inscriptions, but it may appear in some Vakataka epigraphs.
• The ranabhandagar-adhikarana , or military storehouse office, is mentioned on a Vaishali seal.
• The mahapratiara (chief of the palace guards) and the khadyatapakita (superintendent of the royal kitchen) were two officials specifically connected with the royal establishment.
• A Vaishali seal refers to a person as a mahapratihara as well as a taravara . The administrative structure's top layer also included amatyas and sachivas , who were executive officers in charge of various departments.
• Spies known as dutakas were part of the espionage system. Another group of high-ranking officers were the ayuktakas .

Gupta Empire's administrative structure was characterized by a centralized hierarchy, with the king as the highest authority. Provinces, districts, and villages were efficiently governed through appointed officials, ensuring effective control over the vast territories. This administrative model, marked by decentralization and institutionalized practices, left a lasting impact on the subsequent periods of Indian history. The decentralization of power allowed for effective governance at various levels, and the emphasis on justice, economic management, and military strength contributed to the Gupta Empire's success during this period in Indian history.

Question: How was the administration of the Gupta Empire?

In the Gupta Empire, a community and group composed of a chief minister and a Senapati directed the king in the administration of his realm. Rajya, Rashtra, Desha, Mandala, Prithvi, and Avani were some of the empire's other names.

Question: What was the Gupta Empire's organisational structure?

There was a hierarchy of administrative divisions from top to bottom, according to an analysis of the epigraphical documents of the Gupta empire. There were many names for the empire, including Rajya, Rashtra, Desha, Mandala, Prithvi, and Avani. There were 26 provinces with the names Bhukti, Pradesha, and Bhoga.

Question: How was the Gupta period governed?

The king's authority was increasingly constrained during the Gupta era, and he was counselled to rule with the aid of ministers and to respect the judgement of guilds and corporate bodies. On their coinage, the Gupta kings are typically shown.

Question: In the Gupta period, what was the correct rank of "Baladhikarana"?

(a) Head of Army

(b) Head of Police

(c) Head of Cavalry

(d) None of the above

Answer: (a) See the Explanation

During the Gupta period, the army was led by "Baladhikarana." The Gupta Empire is known as India's Golden Age because of the numerous inventions and discoveries in science, technology, engineering, art, dialectic, literature, logic, mathematics, astronomy, religion, and philosophy that illuminated aspects of Hindu culture.

Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer.

Question: Consider the following statements:

• The provinces of the Gupta Empire were known as deshas or bhuktis. Governors, known as uparikas, were in charge of running them.

Which of the following is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d) See the Explanation

The Gupta Empire's provinces were known as deshas or bhuktis. Uparikas, or governors, were in charge of running them. The uparika was directly appointed by the king, who also frequently appointed the district administration and the district board. On seals and inscriptions, military titles such as baladhikrita and mahabaladhikrita (commander of infantry and cavalry) are mentioned. The term "senapati" is not found in Gupta inscriptions, but it may be found in some Vakataka epigraphs.

Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.

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Gupta dynasty

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• World History Encyclopedia - Gupta Empire
• Ancient Origins - Gupta Empire of Ancient India Was Golden Age of Goodwill, Artistic Endeavors and Military Might
• Humanities LibreTexts - The Gupta Empire and India's Classical Age (300-600CE)
• Khan Academy - The Gupta period
• Smarthistory - The Gupta Period
• UShistory.org - The Gupta Period of India
• GlobalSecurity.org - Gupta Empire - 320-550
• IndiaNetzone - Origin and homeland of Gupta Empire
• Gupta dynasty - Children's Encyclopedia (Ages 8-11)
• Gupta dynasty - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up)

Gupta dynasty , rulers of the Magadha (now Bihar ) state in northeastern India . They maintained an empire over northern and parts of central and western India from the early 4th to the late 6th century ce . Historians once regarded the Gupta period as the classical age of India—during which the norms of Indian literature , art, architecture, and philosophy were established—but many of those assumptions have been challenged by more extensive studies of Indian society and culture between the Mauryan and Gupta periods. Among the products traditionally thought to be from the Gupta era were the decimal system of notation, the great Sanskrit epics, and Hindu art, along with contributions to the sciences of astronomy, mathematics, and metallurgy.

Administratively, the Gupta kingdom was divided into provinces, and these in turn were divided into smaller units called pradesha s or vishaya s. The provinces were governed by high imperial officers or members of the royal family. A decentralized system of authority is indicated by the composition of Gupta-era municipal boards.

The first ruler of the empire was Chandra Gupta I , who united the Guptas with the Licchavis by marriage. His son, the celebrated Samudra Gupta , expanded the empire through conquest. It would seem that his campaigns extended Gupta power in northern and eastern India and virtually eliminated the oligarchies and the minor kings of central India and the Ganges valley , regions which then came under the direct administrative control of the Guptas. The empire’s third ruler, Chandra Gupta II (or Vikramaditya, “Sun of Valour”), was celebrated for extending the empire to Ujjain , but his reign became more associated with cultural and intellectual achievements than with military conquest. His successors— Kumara Gupta , Skanda Gupta , and others—saw the gradual demise of the empire with the invasion of the Hunas (a branch of the Hephthalites ). By the mid-6th century, when the dynasty apparently came to an end, the kingdom had dwindled to a small size.

GUPTA ADMINISTRATION

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The Salient Features of the Administrative System of the Guptas | History

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ASHIMA virmani

Journal of emerging technologies and innovative research

Pammi Kumari

… Governance in Developing Countries, Washington, DC …

International Res Jour Managt Socio Human

Abdul Awwal

Nandita Sen

Springer, Singapore, 2021

Vulli Dhanaraju

One important features of the colonialism in India is that when the colonial rulers occupied the main land of the country, they formulated policies first to grab the revenues and resources and later designed the administrative apparatus to execute the forest policies. It is the policy-driven administration that the British adopted in the plains and the main lands. Contrary to this, in the tribal regions and hilly terrains, the system of British governance was to formulate administrative apparatus first and later to support it by forest policies. In view of this, the present paper examines how the colonial state, in the name of Agency administration, imposed several restrictions with support of forest officials who were mainly responsible for the implementation of colonial policies in Agency areas of Andhra.

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Gupta Empire

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The Gupta Empire stretched across northern, central and parts of southern India between c. 320 and 550 CE. The period is noted for its achievements in the arts, architecture , sciences, religion , and philosophy . Chandragupta I (320 – 335 CE) started a rapid expansion of the Gupta Empire and soon established himself as the first sovereign ruler of the empire. It marked the end of 500 hundred years of domination of the provincial powers and resulting disquiet that began with the fall of the Mauryas. Even more importantly, it began a period of overall prosperity and growth that continued for the next two and half centuries which came to be known as a “Golden Age” in India's history. But the seed of the empire was sown at least two generations earlier than this when Srigupta, then only a regional monarch, set off the glory days of this mighty dynasty in circa 240 CE.

Gupta Period – Early Days to the Zenith

Not much is known about the early days of this Gupta dynasty. The travel diaries and writings of Buddhist monks who frequented this part of the world are the most trustworthy sources of information we have about those days. The travelogues of Fa Hien (Faxian, circa 337 – 422 CE), Hiuen Tsang (Xuanzang, 602 – 664 CE) and Yijing (I Tsing, 635 – 713 CE) prove to be invaluable in this respect. The Gupta Empire during the rule of Srigupta (circa 240 – 280 CE) comprised only Magadha and probably a part of Bengal too. Like the Mauryas and other Magadha kings who preceded him, Srigupta ruled from Pataliputra, close to modern day Patna. Srigupta was succeeded to the throne by his son Ghatotkacha (circa 280 – 319 CE).

Chandragupta I

From the Kushans, the Gupta kings learned the benefit of maintaining a cavalry and Chandragupta I, son of Ghatotkacha, made effective use of his strong army. Through his marriage with Licchhavi Princess Kumaradevi, Chandragupta I received the ownership of rich mines full of iron ore adjacent to his kingdom. Metallurgy was already at an advanced stage and forged iron was not only used to meet the internal demands, but also became a valuable trade commodity. The territorial heads ruling over various parts of India could not counter the superior armed forces of Chandragupta I and had to surrender before him. It is conjectured that at the end of his reign, the boundary of the Gupta Empire already extended to Allahabad.

Samudragupta

Samudragupta (circa 335 – 375 CE), Chandragupta I's son who ascended the throne next, was a military genius and he continued the growth of the kingdom. After conquering the remainder of North India, Samudragupta turned his eyes to South India and added a portion of it to his empire by the end of his Southern Campaign. It is generally believed that during his time the Gupta Empire spanned from the Himalayas in north to the mouth of Krishna and Godavari rivers in the South, from Balkh, Afghanistan in the west to the Brahmaputra River in the east.

Samudragupta was very attentive to rajdharma (duties of a king) and took special care to follow Kautilya 's (350 – 275 BCE) Arthashastra (an economic, social and political treatise that has clear instructions about how a monarchy should be governed) closely. He donated large sums of money for various philanthropic purposes, including the promotion of education. Besides being a courageous king and able administrator, he was a poet and musician. The large number of gold coins circulated by him showcases his multifaceted talent. An inscription, probably commissioned by subsequent Gupta kings, known as the Allahabad Pillar is most eloquent about his humane qualities. Samudragupta also believed in promoting goodwill among various religious communities. He gave, for example, Meghavarna, king of Ceylon, permission and support for the construction of a monastery in Bodh Gaya .

Chandragupta II

A short struggle for power appears to have ensued after the reign of Samudragupta. His eldest son Ramagupta became the next Gupta king. This was noted by 7th century CE Sanskrit author Banbhatta in his biographical work, Harshacharita . What followed next forms a part of Sanskrit poet and playwright Visakh Dutta's drama Devi Chandra Guptam . As the story goes, Ramagupta was soon overcome by a Scythian king of Mathura. But the Scythian king, besides the kingdom itself, was interested in Queen Dhruvadevi who was also a renowned scholar. To maintain peace Ramagupta gave up Dhruvadevi to his opponent. It is then Ramagupta's younger brother Chandragupta II with a few of his close aides went to meet the enemy in disguise. He rescued Dhruvadevi and assassinated the Scythian king. Dhruvadevi publicly condemned her husband for his behaviour. Eventually, Ramagupta was killed by Chandragupta II who also married Dhruvadevi sometime later.

Like Samudragupta, Chandragupta II (circa 380 – 414 CE) was a benevolent king, able leader and skilled administrator. By defeating the satrap of Saurashtra, he further expanded his kingdom to the coastline of the Arabian Sea. His courageous pursuits earned him the title of Vikramaditya. To rule the vast empire more efficiently, Chandragupta II founded his second capital in Ujjain. He also took care to strengthen the navy. The seaports of Tamralipta and Sopara consequently became busy hubs of maritime trade. He was a great patron of art and culture too. Some of the greatest scholars of the day including the navaratna (nine gems) graced his court. Numerous charitable institutions, orphanages and hospitals benefitted from his generosity. Rest houses for travellers were set up by the road side. The Gupta Empire reached its pinnacle during this time and unprecedented progress marked all areas of life.

Politics & Administration

Great tact and foresight were shown in the governance of the vast empire. The efficiency of their martial system was well known. The large kingdom was divided into smaller pradesha (provinces) and administrative heads were appointed to take care of them. The kings maintained discipline and transparency in the bureaucratic process. Criminal law was mild, capital punishment was unheard of and judicial torture was not practised. Fa Hien called the cities of Mathura and Pataliputra as picturesque with the latter being described as a city of flowers. People could move around freely. Law and order reigned and, according to Fa Hien, incidents of theft and burglary were rare.

The following also speaks volumes about the prudence of the Gupta kings. Samudragupta acquired a far greater part of southern India than he cared to incorporate into his empire. Therefore, in quite a few cases, he returned the kingdom to the original kings and was satisfied only with collecting taxes from them. He reckoned that the great distance between that part of the country and his capital Pataliputra would hinder the process of good governance.

Socio-economic Conditions

People led a simple life. Commodities were affordable and all round prosperity ensured that their requirements were met easily. They preferred vegetarianism and shunned alcoholic beverages. Gold and silver coins were issued in great numbers which is a general indicative of the health of the economy . Trade and commerce flourished both within the country and outside. Silk , cotton, spices, medicine , priceless gemstones, pearl, precious metal and steel were exported by sea. Highly evolved steelcraft led everyone to a belief that Indian iron was not subject to corrosion. The 7 m (23 ft) high Iron Pillar in Qutub complex, Delhi, built around 402 CE, is a testimony to this fact. Trade relations with Middle East improved. Ivory, tortoise shell etc. from Africa , silk and some medicinal plants from China and the Far East were high on the list of imports. Food, grain, spices, salt, gems and gold bullion were primary commodities of inland trade.

Gupta kings knew that the well-being of the empire lie in maintaining a cordial relationship between the various communities. They were devout Vaishnava (Hindus who worship the Supreme Creator as Vishnu ) themselves, yet that did not prevent them from being tolerant towards the believers of Buddhism and Jainism . Buddhist monasteries received liberal donations. Yijing observed how the Gupta kings erected inns and rest houses for Buddhist monks and other pilgrims. As a pre-eminent site of education and cultural exchange Nalanda prospered under their patronage. Jainism flourished in northern Bengal, Gorakhpur, Udayagiri and Gujarat. Several Jain establishments existed across the empire and Jain councils were a regular occurrence.

Literature , Sciences & Education

Sanskrit once again attained the status of a lingua franca and managed to scale even greater heights than before. Poet and playwright Kalidasa created such epics as Abhijnanasakuntalam , Malavikagnimitram , Raghuvansha and Kumarsambhaba . Harishena, a renowned poet, panegyrist and flutist, composed Allahabad Prasasti , Sudraka wrote Mricchakatika , Vishakhadatta created Mudrarakshasa and Vishnusharma penned Panchatantra . Vararuchi, Baudhayana, Ishwar Krishna and Bhartrihari contributed to both Sanskrit and Prakrit linguistics, philosophy and science .

Varahamihira wrote Brihatsamhita and also contributed to the fields of astronomy and astrology. Genius mathematician and astronomer Aryabhata wrote Surya Siddhanta which covered several aspects of geometry, trigonometry and cosmology. Shanku devoted himself to creating texts about Geography. Dhanvantri's discoveries helped the Indian medicinal system of ayurveda become more refined and efficient. Doctors were skilled in surgical practices and inoculation against contagious diseases was performed. Even today, Dhanvantri's birth anniversary is celebrated on Dhanteras , two days before Diwali. This intellectual surge was not confined to the courts or among the royalty. People were encouraged to learn the nuances of Sanskrit literature, oratory, intellectual debate, music and painting. Several educational institutions were set up and the existing ones received continuous support.

Art, Architecture & Culture

What philosopher and historian Ananda Coomaraswamy said in The Arts & Crafts of India & Ceylone , about the art of the region must be remembered here,

The Hindus do not regard the religious, aesthetic, and scientific standpoints as necessarily conflicting, and in all their finest work, whether musical, literary, or plastic, these points of view, nowadays so sharply distinguished, are inseparably united.

The finest examples of painting, sculpture and architecture of the period can be found in Ajanta , Ellora, Sarnath, Mathura, Anuradhapura and Sigiriya. The basic tenets of Shilpa Shasrta (Treatise on Art) were followed everywhere including in town planning. Stone studded golden stairways, iron pillars (The iron pillar of Dhar is twice the size of Delhi's Iron Pillar), intricately designed gold coins, jewellery and metal sculptures speak volumes about the skills of the metalsmiths. Carved ivories, wood and lac-work, brocades and embroidered textile also thrived. Practicing vocal music, dance and seven types of musical instruments including veena (an Indian musical stringed instrument), flute and mridangam (drum) were a norm rather than exception. These were regularly performed in temples as a token of devotion. In classic Indian style, artists and litterateurs were encouraged to meditate on the imagery within and capture its essence in their creations. As Agni Purana suggests, “O thou Lord of all gods, teach me in dreams how to carry out all the work I have in my mind.”

Decline of the Empire

After the demise of his father Chandragupta II, Kumaragupta I (circa 415 – 455 CE) ruled over the vast empire with skill and ability. He was able to maintain peace and even fend off strong challenges from a tribe known as Pushyamitra. He was helped by his able son Skandagupta (455 – 467 CE) who was the last of the sovereign rulers of the Gupta Dynasty. He also succeeded in preventing the invasion of the Huns (Hephthalites). Skandagupta was a great scholar and wise ruler. For the well being of the denizens he carried out several construction works including the rebuilding of a dam on Sudarshan Lake, Gujarat. But these were the last of the glory days of the empire.

After Skandagupta's death the dynasty became embroiled with domestic conflicts. The rulers lacked the capabilities of the earlier emperors to rule over such a large kingdom. This resulted in a decline in law and order. They were continuously plagued by the attacks of the Huns and other foreign powers. This put a dent in the economic well-being of the empire. On top of this, the kings remained more occupied with self-indulgence than in preparing to meet with the challenges of their enemies. The inept ministers and administrative heads also followed suit. Notably, after the defeat and capture of Mihirakula, one of the most important Hephthalite emperors of the time, Gupta King Baladitya set him free on the advice of his ministers. The Huns came back to haunt the empire later and finally drew the curtains on this illustrious empire in circa 550. The following lines of King Sudraka's Mricchakatika (The Little Clay Cart) aptly sum up the rise and fall in the fortune of the Gupta Dynasty.

Fate plays with us like buckets at the well, Where one is filled, and one an empty shell, Where one is rising, while another falls; And shows how life is change - now heaven, now hell.

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Bibliography

• Banerji, R.D. Prehistoric Ancient And Hindu India. Nabu Press, 2011.
• Chandra, R., Altekar, Anant Sadashiv. (eds.) Majumdar. The Vakataka - Gupta Age. Motilal Banarsidass, 1967.
• Coins of Samudragupta , accessed 1 Dec 2016.
• Coomaraswamy, A.K. The Arts & Crafts of India & Ceylone. T N Foulis, London & Edinburgh, 1913
• Fa-Hien; Translated By James Legge. Record of Buddhistic Kingdoms, Being an Account by the Chinese Monk Fa- hien of His Travels.. Oriental Publishers, 1971.
• Mookerji, R. The Gupta Empire. Motilal Banarsidass, 2007.
• Shudraka. The Little Clay Cart. NYU Press, 2009.

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Gupta Empire - Facts about Gupta Dynasty (NCERT Ancient History for UPSC)

In Ancient India, the Gupta Dynasty ruled the mid-to-late 3rd century (approximately) to 543 AD. Founded by Sri Gupta, the dynasty rose to fame with rulers like Chandragupta-I, Samudragupta, etc. An important topic in the History syllabus, it is also important for the  IAS Exam . This article will provide you with useful notes on the Gupta Empire. These notes will also be useful for other competitive exams like banking PO, SSC, state civil services exams, and so on.

Civil services aspirants can also refer to articles related to the Gupta Empire from the links mentioned in the table below:

Gupta Dynasty (UPSC Notes):- Download PDF Here

Origin of Gupta Empire

The decline of the Mauryan empire resulted in the rise of two major political powers – the Kushanas and the Satavahanas in the north and south respectively. Both these empires brought political unity and economic growth in their respective areas. The Kushan reign in north India came to an end around c.230 CE and then a good part of central India came under the domain of the Murundas (possible kinsmen of the Kushanas).

The Murundas ruled for only 25 – 30 years. Around the last decade of the 3rd century CE (about  275 CE), the dynasty of the Guptas came to power. The Gupta empire established its control over a good part of the former dominions of both the Kushanas and the Satavahanas . The Guptas (possibly Vaishyas) kept northern India politically united for more than a century (335 CE- 455 CE).

• The Guptas are believed to have been  feudatories of the Kushanas .
• The original kingdom of the Guptas comprised Uttar Pradesh and Bihar with their centre of power at Prayag (U.P).
• The Guptas set up their rule over the fertile plains of the Madhyadesha, also known as Anuganga (the middle Gangetic basin), Saketa (U.P Ayodhya), Prayag (U.P) and Magadha (mostly Bihar).
• The Guptas made good use of the iron ore reserves in central India and south Bihar and also took advantage of their proximity to the areas in north India which carried on silk trade with the Byzantine empire (eastern Roman empire) .
• The Gupta period in ancient India is referred to as the “Golden Age” because of the numerous achievements in the field of arts, literature, science and technology. It also brought about the political unification of the subcontinent.

Gupta Empire – Kings

A brief about the kings of the Gupta dynasty is given in the table below:

Given below is the video curated by experts in line with the CSE Syllabus , based on the rise of Gupta Empire in the country. Candidates can get detailed information about the Gupta period by referring to the vide given below:

Gupta Empire – Chandragupta I (320 – 335 CE)

• Was the son of Ghatotkacha.
• Chandragupta Ⅰ is considered to be the founder of the Gupta Era which started with his accession in 319 – 320 CE.
• He strengthened his position by a matrimonial alliance with the Lichchhavis (Nepal). He married Kumaradevi, a princess of the Lichchhavi clan and this added to the power and prestige of the Gupta family (Vaishyas).
• He extended his kingdom through conquests. His territory extended from the Ganges River to Prayaga by 321 AD.
• He issued coins in the joint names of his queen and himself.
• He assumed the title of Maharajadhiraja (great king of kings).
• He was successful in building a small principality into a great kingdom.
• His empire consisted of Uttar Pradesh, Bengal and parts of modern Bihar, with Pataliputra as its capital.
• He is considered the first great king of the Gupta Empire.

Gupta Empire – Samudragupta (c. 335/336 – 375 CE)

• The Gupta kingdom was enlarged enormously by Chandragupta Ⅰ’s son and successor Samudragupta.
• The Allahabad Pillar Inscription (Prayaga – Prashasti) gives a detailed account of his achievements. He followed the policy of war and conquest . This long inscription was composed by his court poet, Harisena, in chaste Sanskrit . The inscription is engraved on the same pillar that carries the inscription of peace-loving Ashoka.
• Group Ⅰ – Includes rulers of Ganga-Yamuna doab , who were defeated. He uprooted nine Naga rulers and annexed their territories.
• Group Ⅱ – Includes rulers of the eastern Himalayan states and some frontier states such as the princes of Nepal, Assam, Bengal, etc. who surrendered to his might. It also includes parts of Punjab.
• Group Ⅲ – Includes the forest kingdom situated in the Vindhya region (central India) known as atavika rajyas and forced their rulers into servitude. The conquest of this region helped him to move towards the south. 
• Group Ⅳ – Includes twelve rulers of eastern Deccan and south India who were defeated and his power reached as far as Kanchi (Tamil Nadu), where the Pallavas were forced to recognise his suzerainty . It is important to mention that Virasena was the commander of Samudragupta during his southern campaign. In the south, he adopted the policy of political conciliation and reinstated the defeated kings on their thrones. These states acknowledged his suzerainty and paid him tributes and presents .
• Group Ⅴ – Includes the Shakas of western India and Kushana rulers of north-west India and Afghanistan. Samudragupta swept them out of power.
• Though he had spread his influence over a vast area, and even received tributes from many kings of south-east Asia, Samudragupta exercised direct administrative control mainly over the Indo-Gangetic basin. According to Chinese sources, Meghavarman, the ruler of Sri Lanka, sent a missionary to Samudragupta for permission to build a Buddhist temple at Bodh Gaya.
• After conquering the territories, Samudragupta celebrated by performing the  asvamedha (horse sacrifice). He issued coins with the legend “restorer of the asvamedha” . It is because of his military achievements that Samudragupta was hailed as the ‘ Indian Napoleon’.
• He was equally great in his personal accomplishments. The Allahabad Pillar Inscription speaks of his magnanimity to his foes, his polished intellect, his poetic skills, and his proficiency in music. He is known by the title Kaviraja (king among poets) because of his ability in composing verses. His image depicting him with veena (lyre) is found in the coins issued by him. He is also credited with promoting Sanskrit literature and learning, characteristic of his dynasty.
• He was an ardent follower of Vaishnavism but was tolerant of other religions . He showed a keen interest in Buddhism and was the patron of the great Buddhist scholar Vasubandhu.
• Legends on his coins include epithets such as  Apratirathah (invincible), Vyaghra-Parakramah (brave as a tiger), Parakramah (brave).

Gupta Empire – Chandragupta II (c. 376 – 413/415 CE)

• Samudragupta was succeeded by his son – Chandragupta Ⅱ. But according to some scholars, the immediate successor was Ramagupta, the elder brother of Chandragupta Ⅱ. But there is little historical proof for this.
• During Chandragupta Ⅱ’s reign, the Gupta dynasty reached its peak by expanding territories through conquests as well as by marriage alliances . He married Kuberananga , a Naga princess and had a daughter, Prabhavati with her. He married Prabhavati to a Vakataka prince, Rudrasena Ⅱ (Deccan). After the death of her husband, Prabhavati ruled the territory as regent to her minor sons with the help of her father. Thus Chandragupta Ⅱ  indirectly controlled the Vakataka kingdom.
• Chandragupta Ⅱ’s control over the Vakataka kingdom in central India proved quite advantageous for him. It helped him to  conquer Gujarat and western Malwa , which was under the rule of Shakas for about four centuries by that time. The Guptas reached the western sea coast which was famous  for trade and commerce. This contributed to the prosperity of Malwa and its main city Ujjain, which was also Chandragupta Ⅱ’s second capital.
• An Iron Pillar inscription at Mehrauli in Delhi indicates that his empire included even north-western India and Bengal . He adopted the title ‘Vikramaditya’ (powerful as the sun) and Simhavikrama .
• He issued gold coins (Dinara), silver coins and copper coins. On his coins, he is mentioned as Chandra .
• During his reign, a Chinese traveller,  Fa-Hien visited India and wrote a detailed account about the life of its people.
• The Udaigiri cave inscriptions refer to his digvijaya , that is, his conquest of the whole world.
• Kalidasa – He wrote Abhijnashakuntalam, one of the best hundred literary works in the world and also the earliest Indian work to be translated to European languages.
• Amarasimha – His work Amarakosha is a vocabulary of Sanskrit roots, homonyms and synonyms. It has three parts containing around ten thousand words and is also known as Trikanda .
• He composed Pancha Siddhantika, the five astronomical systems.
• His work Brihadsamhita is a great work in the Sanskrit language. It deals with a variety of subjects like astronomy, astrology, geography, architecture, weather, animals, marriage and omens.
• His Brihat Jataka is considered to be a standard work on astrology.
• Dhanvantri – He is considered to be the father of Ayurveda.
• Ghatakarapara – An expert in sculpture and architecture.
• Shanku – An architect who wrote the Shilpa Shastra.
• Kahapanaka – An astrologer who wrote Jyotishya Shastra.
• Vararuchi – Author of Prakrit Prakasha, the first grammar of the Prakrit language.
• Vetala Bhatta – Author of  Mantrashastra and was a magician.

Kumaragupta Ⅰ (c. 415 – 455 CE)

• Kumaragupta Ⅰ was the son and successor of Chandragupta Ⅱ.
• Adopted the titles of ‘Shakraditya’ and ‘Mahendraditya’.
• Performed ‘asvamedha’ sacrifices.
• Most importantly, he laid the foundation of Nalanda University which emerged as an institution of international reputation.
• At the end of his reign, peace did not prevail on the north-west frontier due to the invasion of the Huns of Central Asia . After occupying Bactria, the Huns crossed the Hindukush mountains, occupied Gandhara and entered India. Their first attack, during Kumaragupta Ⅰ’s reign, was made unsuccessful by prince Skandagupta .
• The inscriptions of Kumaragupta Ⅰ’s reign are – Karandanda, Mandsor, Bilsad inscription (oldest record of his reign)  and Damodar Copper Plate inscription.

Skandagupta (c. 455 – 467 CE)

• Adopted the title ‘Vikramaditya’ .
• Junagarh/Girnar inscription of his reign reveals that his governor Parnadatta repaired the Sudarshan lake.
• After Skandagupta’s death, many of his successors like Purugupta, Kumaragupta Ⅱ, Buddhagupta, Narasimhagupta, Kumaragupta Ⅲ and Vishnugupta could not save the Gupta empire from the Huns. Ultimately, the Gupta power totally disappeared due to a variety of reasons.

Also read: Vakatakas

Decline of Gupta Empire

The various reasons that led to the fall of the Gupta empire are discussed below:

Hun Invasion

The Gupta prince Skandagupta fought bravely and successfully against the early Huns’ invasion. However, his successors proved to be weak and could not check the Huns’ invasion. The Huns showed excellent horsemanship and were expert archers which helped them to attain success, not only in Iran but also in India. In the latter half of the 5th century, the Hun chief Toramana conquered large parts of western India, up to Eran near Bhopal in central India. By 485 CE, Huns had occupied Punjab, Rajasthan, Kashmir, eastern Malwa and a large part of central India. Toramana (in 515 CE) was succeeded by his son Mihirkula , who  was a tyrant ruler as is mentioned in the Rajatarangini by Kalhana and Hieun-Tsang refers to him as a persecutor of Buddhists . Mihirkula was defeated and  the Huna power was overthrown by Yashodharman of Malwa, Narasimha Gupta Baladitya of the Gupta empire and the Maukharis . However, this win over Huns could not revive the Gupta empire.

Rise of Feudatories

The rise of feudatories was another factor that led to the fall of the Gupta empire. Yashodharman of Malwa (belonged to the Aulikara feudatory family ) after defeating Mihirkula successfully challenged the authority of the Guptas and set up, in 532 CE, pillars of victory commemorating his conquest of almost the whole of northern India. Although Yashodharman’s rule was short-lived, it certainly gave a huge blow to the Gupta empire. The other feudatories too rose in rebellion against the Guptas and ultimately became independent in Bihar, Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Valabhi, Gujarat, Malwa and so on . It is important to mention that after the reign of Skandagupta (467 CE) hardly any coin or inscription has been found in western Malwa and Saurashtra.

Economic decline

By the end of the 5th century, the Guptas had lost western India and this must have deprived the Guptas of the rich revenues from trade and commerce and hence crippled them economically. The economic decline of the Guptas is indicated by the gold coins of later Gupta rulers, which have less percentage of gold metal. The practice of land grants for religious and other purposes also reduced the revenues which resulted in economic instability.

The fall of the Gupta empire led to the emergence of numerous ruling dynasties in different parts of northern India e.g, Pushyabhutis of Thanesar, Maukharies of Kannauj and the Maitrakas of Valabhi . In peninsular India, the Chalukyas and the Pallavas emerged as the strong powers in Deccan and northern Tamil Nadu respectively . Get UPSC exam details related to the post Gupta period, curated by experts for the reference of IAS aspirants at the video given below:

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Ch. 6 Early Civilizations in the Indian Subcontinent

Rise of the gupta empire, learning objective.

• Explain the factors that contributed to the rise of the Gupta Empire
• Sri Gupta founded the Gupta Empire c. 240-280 CE, and was succeeded by his son, Ghatotkacha, c. 280-319 CE, followed by Ghatotkacha’s son, Chandragupta, c. 319-335 CE.
• After Chandragupta married princess Kumaradevi from the kingdom of Magadha, he conquered or assimilated the nearby kingdoms and assumed the imperial title of Maharajadhiraja, meaning “King of Kings.”
• Chandragupta’s son, Samudragupta, assumed the throne in 335 CE, and conquered several neighboring kingdoms; eventually, the Gupta Empire extended across the entire Indian subcontinent.
• Samudragupta was succeeded by his son, Chandragupta II, who continued to expand the Gupta Empire through conquest and political alliances.

Maharajadhiraja

A Sanskrit title for “Prince of Princes” or “King of Kings,” several degrees higher than the title Maharaja, which means “Great King.”

A Vedic ritual horse sacrifice; Samudragupta commemorated his territorial conquests with one of these rituals.

The Gupta Empire, founded by Maharaja Sri Gupta, was an ancient Indian realm that covered much of the Indian Subcontinent from approximately 320-550 CE. Gupta rule, while solidified by territorial expansion through war, began a period of peace and prosperity marked by advancements in science, technology, engineering, art, dialectics, literature, logic, mathematics, astronomy, religion, and philosophy.

Gupta Empire Origins

The Gupta Empire was believed to be a dynasty of the Vaishya caste, the third of the four Hindu castes representing merchants and farmers. Founded by Sri Gupta c. 240-280 CE, there are contradictory theories regarding the original homeland of the Guptas. Historians believe Sri Gupta and his son may have been Kushan vassals, or rulers who swore allegiance to the Kushan Empire. Sri Gupta’s son and successor, Ghatotkacha, ruled from c. 280-319 CE, while his son, Chandragupta, ascended the throne around 319 and ruled until 335 CE.

Chandragupta married princess Kumaradevi from the Kingdom of Magadha, which was one of the Mahajanapadas (or great countries) of ancient India during the 4th century CE. With a dowry and political alliance from the marriage, Chandragupta conquered or assimilated the kingdoms of Magadha, Prayaga, and Saketa. By 321 CE, he established a realm stretching along the Ganges River to Prayag, the modern-day city of Allahabad, in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Hindus believe the god Brahma offered his first sacrifice after creating the world at Prayag.

Queen Kumaradevi and King Chandragupta I. A coin from the period of Indian Emperor Samudragupta, 335-380 CE, depicting his parents, King Chandragupta and Queen Kumaradevi.

Gupta Empire Expansion

Samudragupta succeeded his father, Chandragupta I, in 335 CE, and ruled for about 45 years. He conquered the kingdoms of Ahichchhatra and Padmavati early in his reign, then attacked neighboring tribes, including the Malwas, Yaudheyas, Arjunayanas, Maduras, and Abhiras. By his death in 380 CE, Samudragupta had incorporated over 20 kingdoms into his realm, and extended the Gupta Empire from the Himalayas to the Narmada River in central India, and from the Brahmaputra River that cuts through four modern Asian nations to the Yamuna— the longest tributary of the Ganges River in northern India.

To celebrate his conquest, Samudragupta performed the royal Vedic ritual of Ashwamedha , or horse sacrifice. Special coins were minted to commemorate the Ashvamedha, and the king took the title of Maharajadhiraja (or “King of Kings”) even higher than the traditional ruler’s title of Maharaja.

According to the Gupta records, Samudragupta nominated his son, Prince Chandragupta II, born of Queen Dattadevi, as his successor. However, his eldest son, Ramagupta, may have been his immediate successor until he was dethroned by Chandragupta II in 380 CE.

Gupta Empire, 320-600 CE. The Gupta Empire expanded through conquest and political alliances until 395 CE, when it extended across the entire Indian subcontinent.

Gupta Empire of Chandragupta II

After gaining power, Chandragupta II expanded the Gupta Empire through conquest and political marriages until the end of his reign in 413 CE. By 395 CE, his control over India extended coast to-coast. At the high point of his rule, Chandragupta II established a second capital at Ujjain, the largest city in the modern state of Madhya Pradesh in central India. Ujjain, on the eastern bank of the Kshipra River, remained an important political, commercial, and cultural hub through the early 19th century.

Vikramaditya is the name of an emperor of ancient Indian legend, characterized as the ideal king known for generosity, courage, and as a patron of scholars. A number of historians believe that some of these legends are based on Chandragupta II, who is thought to have adopted the title of Vikramaditya.

In the legends, Vikramaditya is said to have thwarted an invasion by the Saka, a group of eastern Iranian nomadic tribes, also known as Scythians, and gained the title of Sakari, or Enemy of the Saka. Chandragupta II conquered the western Indian region of Malwa after defeating the Western Kshatrapas, a branch of the Sakas, as well as expelling the Kushana Empire from the northern Indian city state Mathura. These victories were likely transposed onto the legendary character of Vikramaditya.

Chandragupta II issued gold coin types introduced by his father, Samudragupta, but also introduced several new types of coins, differentiated by the designs on the face of each coin line, such as the Archer or the Tiger-Slayer. He was also the first Gupta king to issue silver coins.

One of the most curious structures in Delhi, India (an iron pillar dating back to the 4th century CE) bears an inscription stating that it was erected as a flagstaff in honor of the Hindu god Vishnu, and in memory of Chandragupta II. The pillar, made of 98% wrought iron, is considered a highlight of ancient Indian achievements in metallurgy; it has stood more than 1,600 years without rusting or decomposing.

Iron Pillar of Delhi. The Iron Pillar of Delhi, India, erected by Chandragupta II to honor the Hindu god Vishnu, in the 4th century CE.

Despite the expansion of the Gupta Empire through war, there were numerous examples of cultural sophistication during the Gupta era, with architecture, sculptures and paintings surviving as reminders of the creativity of the time. Under Gupta rule, a number of notable scholars thrived, including Kalidasa, considered the greatest poet and dramatist of the Sanskrit language; Aryabhata, the first of the Indian mathematician-astronomers who worked on the approximation for Pi ; Vishnu Sharma, thought to be the author of the Panchatantra fables, one of the most widely-translated, non-religious books in history; and the Hindu philosopher Vatsyayana, author of the Kama Sutra .

The period of Gupta rule, especially the reign of Chandragupta II, is still remembered as the Golden Age of India.

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System of Administration During Gupta Age

In contrast to the Maurya rulers, the Gupta kings adopted pompous titles such asparameshvara, maharajadhiraja, and paramabhattaraka which signify that they ruled over many lesser kings in their empire.

Kingship was hereditary, but royal power was limited by the want of a firm adherence to primogeniture.

The throne did not always go to the eldest son, creating uncertainties of which the chiefs and high officials took advantage.

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The Guptas made munificent gifts to the brahmanas, who expressed their gratitude by comparing the king to different gods. He was looked upon as Vishnu, the protector and preserver. The goddess Lakshmi is invariably represented on Gupta coins as Vishnu’s wife. The numerical strength of the Gupta army is not known. Evidently the king maintained a standing army, which was supplemented by the forces occasionally supplied by his feudatories. Horse chariots receded into the background, and cavalry came to the fore. Horse archery became an important element in military tactics.

During the Gupta period land taxes increased in number, and those on trade and commerce decreased. Probably the king collected taxes varying from one-fourth to one-sixth of the produce. In addition, whenever the royal army passed through the countryside, the local people had to feed it. The peasants had also to supply animals, food grains, furniture, etc., for the maintenance of royal officers on duty in rural areas. In central and western India, the villagers were also subjected to forced labour called vishti by the royal army and officials.

The judicial system was far more developed under the Guptas than in earlier times. Several law-books were compiled during this period, and for the first time civil and criminal laws were clearly demarcated. Theft and adultery fell under criminal law, disputes regarding various types of property under civil law.

Elaborate laws were laid down about inheritance. As in earlier times, many laws continued to be based on varna differentiation. It was the duty of the king to uphold the law, and try cases with the help of brahmana priests. The guilds of artisans, merchants, and others were governed by their own laws. Seals from Vaishali and from Bhita near Allahabad indicate that these guilds flourished during Gupta times.

The Gupta bureaucracy was not as elaborate as that of the Mauryas. The most important officers in the Gupta empire were the kumaramatyas. They were appointed by the king in the home provinces and possibly paid in cash. As the Guptas were possibly vaishyas, recruitment was not confined to the upper varnas only, but several offices were combined in the hands of the same person, and posts became hereditary. This naturally weakened royal control.

The Guptas organized a system of provincial and local administration. The empire was divided into divisions called bhukth, and each bhukti was placed under the charge of an uparika. The bhuktis were divided into districts (vishayas), which were placed under the charge of a vishayapati. In eastern India, the vishayas were divided into vithis, which again were subdivided into villages. The village headman gained in importance in Gupta times, managing village affairs with the assistance of elders. With the administration of a village or a small town, leading local elements were associated. No land transactions could be effected without their consent.

In the urban administration, organized professional bodies were given a considerable say. The sealings from Vaishali show that artisans, merchants, and the head of the guild served on the same corporate body, and in this capacity they obviously conducted the affairs of the town. The administrative board of the district of Kotivarsha in north Bengal (Bangladesh) included the chief merchant, the chief trader, and the chief artisan. Their consent to land transactions was considered necessary. Artisans and bankers were organized into their own separate guilds. We hear of numerous guilds of artisans, traders, etc., at Bhita and Vaishali.

At Mandasor in Malwa and at Indore, silk weavers maintained their own guilds. In the district of Bulandshahar in western UP, the oil-pressers were organized into guilds. It seems that these guilds, especially those of merchants, enjoyed certain immunities. In any event, they looked after the affairs of their own members and punished those who violated the laws and customs of the guild.

The system of administration described above applied only to north Bengal, Bihar, UP, and some adjoining areas of MP, which were ruled directly by the officers appointed by the Gupta kings. The major part of the empire was held by feudatory chiefs, many of whom had been subjugated by Samudragupta. The vassals who lived on the edge of the empire had three obligations to fulfill.

As subordinate princes, they offered homage to the sovereign by personal attendance at his court, paid tribute to him, and presented to him daughters in marriage. It seems that in return they obtained charters to rule their areas, and these, marked with the royal Garuda seal, seem to have been issued to the vassals. The Guptas thus controlled several tributary princes in MP and elsewhere.

The second important feudal development that surfaced under the Guptas was the grant of fiscal and administrative concessions to priests and administrators. Started in the Deccan by the Satavahanas, the practice became a regular affair in Gupta times, particularly in MP. Religious functionaries were granted land, free of tax, for posterity, and they were authorized to collect from the peasants all the taxes that once went directly to the emperor. The villages granted to the beneficiaries could not be entered by royal agents, retainers, and others, and the beneficiaries were also empowered to punish criminals.

Whether state officials were paid by grants of land in Gupta times is not clear. The abundance of gold coins would suggest that higher officials continued to be paid in cash, but some of them may have been remunerated by land grants. As much of the imperial administration was managed by feudatories and beneficiaries, the Gupta rulers did not require as many officials as did the Mauryas, and also because, in contrast to the Maurya state, the Gupta slate did not regulate economic activities on any substantial scale.

The participation of leading artisans, merchants, elders, and others in the rural and urban administration also lessened the need to maintain a large retinue of officers. The Guptas neither needed nor had the elaborate administrative machinery of Maurya times, and in some ways their political system appears to have been feudal.

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The salient features of the administrative system of the guptas | history.

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The Salient Features of the Administrative System of the Guptas are as follows:

Contemporary inscriptions and literary sources throw light on the polity and administrative system of the Gupta period. Land and land relations acquired central stage in the economic life of the period and flourishing trade of the post Mauryan- pre-Gupta period declined sharply in this period.

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The period was also marked by the growing significance of land grants which led to decentralization of political authority of the king and finally gave birth to feudalism in Indian history.

The law of the primogeniture was not firmly established, and sometimes elder sons were passed over in favour of younger sons. The king appointed ministers, commanders, governors etc. He received the obeisance of his vassals and princes. His pompous titles Paramesvara, Maharajadhiraja, Paramabhattaraka indicate the existence of lesser princes and chiefs with whom he had to come to terms in his empire.

The maintenance of the Varnasrama Dharma appear as an important royal duty in Gupta inscription imposed upon the king, who is described as the giver of thousands of gold coins. The second change noticeable in the Gupta kingship is not qualitative but quantitative and relates to its divine associations. They are compared to Vishnu as regards their function of preserving and protecting the people, and Laxmi, wife of Vishnu and goddess of prosperity appears on many Gupta coins.

Ministers called by different names such as Mantrin, Amatya or sachiva may have restrained the despotic activities of the king, although inscriptions give very little idea of their functions and no idea of their corporate existence. Undoubtedly some individual ministers such as Harisena were powerful because of having combined posts of the Mahadan- danayaka, Kumaramatya, Sanhivigrahika in the same person. And then the post became hereditary in the same family for several generations. Such families must have played an important part in politics.

Ministers or advisers formed part of the higher bureaucracy of the Guptas. Among the other high officers we may take special notice of the Sandhivigrahika, who are not known to earlier inscription. Like the Mahamatras under Ashoka and the Amatyas under the Satavahanas, the Kuma- ramatyas formed the chief cadre for recruiting high functionaries under the Guptas. Literally translated as the minister of peace and war, the Sandhivigrahika first appears under Samudragupta whose Amatya Harisena holds this title.

We have the famous example of Harisena, who held the several important portfolios. We hear of Kumaramatya who held the offices of the Mahasvapti and Mahadanayka. We have no precise idea about the mode of payment to the officers under the Gupta Empire. The discovery of numerous Gupta’s gold coins and their use in land transaction in Bengal coupled with the prevalence of the tax known as Hiranya would suggest that at least higher officers were paid in cash.

Three grades of military commands came into existence, namely those of Mahabaladhikrta, Mahadanayaka and Senapati. The cavalry, the elephant corps and perhaps also the infantry were organized under separate commands. Civil officials such as Amatyas, Kumaramatyas, etc. performed military functions or were promoted to the rank of high military officers.

A ministers hailing from Pataliputra accompanied Chandragupta II on his campaign to Western India. Similarly military officers may have performed civil functions.

The taxation system of the Guptas was not so elaborate and organised like that of the Arthasastra of Kautilya. The villagers paid in kind certain customary miscellaneous dues, which could be measured but these are not specified. They also paid hiranya or gold, but what it actually meant cannot be said. The artisans also had to pay some imposts, and traders were subjected to customs on commodities of trade, which were levied and collected by the custom officer.

Guptas evolved the first systematic provincial and local administration. This was primarily concerned with the collection of revenues and maintenance of law and order. The core, of the empire directly controlled by the Guptas was divided -into a number of provinces. A Gupta province was smaller than a Mauryan province, but much larger than a modem division.

The Bhukti was the largest administrative unit under the Guptas and there were at least six such divisions over Bengal, Jharkhand. Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. It was placed in charge of an Uparika. The exact connotation of this high officer is obscure, probably in origin it had something to do with the collection of Uparikara, an additional impost on the peasants in addition to the fixed annual share of the produce.

The officer was undoubtedly a governor appointed by the Gupta King, but the literal meaning of the term Bhukti suggests that the territory placed under his charge was intended to be enjoyed rather than governed by him in its own interest. It is a pity that we have no information regarding the functions of the head of the Bhukti.

The Bhukti was divided into V’isayas or districts, whose number is not known. The visayas of Rajgriha, Pataliputra and Gaya were included in Megadhbhukti which, if we believe the geographical details in the Spurious Nalanda grant of Samudragupta, also included Krimila Visaya, roughly corresponding to Munger, Lakhisarai, Shekhpura, Jamui, Khagria and Begusarai districts and extending over both the north and south of the Ganges.

In Tirabhukti, Vaisali was the headquarter of a Visaya, although it is mentioned as such in only one seal and here to the reading is doubtful. In Pundravardhan bhukti, now in Bangladesh, the Visaya of Kotivarsa was a famous administrative unit.

The Visaya was in charge of the Kumaramatya in early times, but later it came to be placed under the Visayapati. Ordinarily in Bengal, Jharkhand and Bihar the Visayapati was the head of the local office or Adhikarna. But in one case in western U.P. he was placed in charge of a district called Bhoga.

We have some idea of the way the district governor maintained his power in the Visaya of Kotivarsa. He based his authority on the force consisting if elephants, cavalry and infantry, whose cost was defrayed probably out of the revenues supplied by the district. Perhaps every district had a strong military contingent to back civil authority in times of need.

The Visaya was divided into Vithis. In Bihar we know of Nandivithi, whose headquarters lay 2 miles to the northwest of Surajgarha in South Munger. But several vithis are known from Bengal, and in one case we have full information about the composition of the committee which took part in its government.

The vithi consisted of villages which formed the lowest unit of administration; several of these are mentioned in Gupta inscriptions and seals. The leading part in managing the affairs of the village was taken by its gramika and elders known as the mahattama, mahattaka or mahattara.

The term Gramadhipati and Gramasyadhipati used in contemporary texts would suggest that the village headman was treated as the lord of the village. If we rely on a passage from the Kamasutra of Vatsyayana, perhaps in western India, where this text was composed, the village headman called Gramadhipati Ayuktaka tended to become all powerful.

The expanding scope of the village administration is a significant aspect of the Gupta polity. This did not come to happen because the state raised too many taxes to maintain a large official apparatus nor had too many copper coins to pay minor employees. Naturally many of the functions once performed by the central government devolved on the village administration, which was dominated by feudal and influential elements.

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Write an essay on Gupta administration.

The Gupta dynasty is widely regarded as one of the most prosperous and influential periods in ancient Indian history. This dynasty ruled from the 4th to the 6th century CE and was characterized by its remarkable achievements in various fields such as art, literature, science, and philosophy. Under the Gupta rulers, India experienced an unprecedented period of peace, stability, and economic growth, which contributed to the country’s cultural and intellectual prosperity.

One of the most significant aspects of the Gupta administration was its political organization. The Gupta kings implemented a centralized form of government that allowed for efficient administration and effective communication throughout the empire. They appointed governors to oversee the provinces, who were required to report regularly to the central government. Additionally, the Gupta kings maintained a well-organized system of taxation, which helped to fund their ambitious building projects and military campaigns.

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The Gupta administration was also marked by significant advancements in the arts and sciences. During this period, Indian literature and poetry flourished, and scholars made notable contributions to fields such as mathematics, astronomy, and medicine. Prominent figures of the Gupta period include Aryabhata, a mathematician; Varahamihira, an astronomer; and Charaka, a physician. The Gupta era also witnessed the emergence of classical dance forms such as Bharatanatyam and Kathak, which remain an essential part of Indian culture to this day.

The Gupta dynasty’s most enduring legacy, however, was its contributions to the field of art and architecture. The Gupta kings were patrons of the arts, and they commissioned some of the most iconic works of Indian art, such as the Ajanta and Ellora caves. These rock-cut temples and monasteries are considered masterpieces of Indian art and architecture and are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Gupta period also saw the emergence of the Gupta style of art, which was characterized by a focus on realism and naturalism.

Furthermore, the Gupta administration was renowned for its military strength. The Gupta kings were skilled warriors and expanded their empire through a series of successful military campaigns. They defeated their rivals in the northwest, including the Shakas and the Huns, and expanded their empire to encompass much of northern India. Additionally, the Gupta rulers maintained a strong navy, which allowed them to control trade routes and engage in maritime commerce with Southeast Asia.

One of the most notable aspects of the Gupta administration was its commitment to religious tolerance. The Gupta rulers were known for their liberal and inclusive approach towards different faiths. They supported and patronized various religious traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. This tolerance and acceptance of diversity contributed significantly to India’s social and cultural fabric.

Overall, the Gupta administration was a period of great prosperity and achievement for India. Under their rule, the country experienced a period of peace and stability, leading to exceptional advancements in various fields such as art, literature, science, and philosophy. The Gupta kings were skilled administrators who fostered the arts and sciences and expanded their empire through military conquest. The Gupta era’s legacy continues to shape Indian culture and society, making it one of the most significant and influential periods in Indian history.

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