Introduction
After the decline of the Gupta Empire, India saw political fragmentation with the rise of regional kingdoms. Among them, Harsha Vardhana emerged as a powerful ruler, unifying northern India temporarily. This period saw continuity in administration, culture, and religion, and laid the foundation for medieval Indian polity.
1. Harsha Vardhana (c. 606 – 647 CE)
Territory:
- Kingdom based in Kanauj (Uttar Pradesh).
- Extended influence over Magadha, Bengal, Punjab, and parts of central India.
Administration:
- Centralized monarchy with provincial governors (Rajyapatis).
- Local administration managed through village assemblies.
- Maintained a standing army; revenue collected through taxes on land and trade.
Economy:
- Agriculture remained primary; cultivation of rice, wheat, pulses.
- Trade flourished within India; long-distance trade existed with Southeast Asia and China.
- Use of coins continued for commercial transactions.
Religion & Culture:
- Initially a Shaivite, later patronized Buddhism.
- Supported religious debates, monasteries, and pilgrimage centers.
- Harsha himself wrote “Harshacharita” (biography) and “Nagananda” (play).
Significance:
- Temporarily unified northern India after Gupta decline.
- Patron of arts, literature, and religion.
- Maintained diplomatic relations with China, as seen in the records of Xuanzang (Chinese traveler).
2. Post-Gupta Regional Kingdoms
After Harsha, India experienced political fragmentation, but regional kingdoms continued cultural and administrative developments.
Major Dynasties:
- Pushyabhuti (Harsha) in Kanauj – short-lived after his death.
- Chalukyas of Badami (c. 6th – 8th century CE) – Deccan region; promoted temple architecture and administration.
- Rashtrakutas (c. 8th – 10th century CE) – Maharashtra & Karnataka; known for rock-cut temples (Ellora).
- Palas of Bengal (8th – 12th century CE) – Buddhist stronghold, centers of learning (Nalanda, Vikramashila).
- Pratiharas of Rajasthan – defended northern India from Arab invasions; promoted art and architecture.
Society & Economy:
- Agrarian economy; villages were the backbone.
- Growth of towns, markets, and trade guilds.
- Society continued to be hierarchical with varna system.
Religion & Culture:
- Hinduism regained prominence, while Buddhism and Jainism continued in pockets.
- Flourishing of temple architecture, sculpture, and literature.
- Monastic universities like Nalanda and Vikramashila became centers of higher learning.
Significance of the Period
Facilitated cultural exchange with Central and Southeast Asia.
Continuity in administration, economy, and society after Gupta decline.
Strengthened regional identities and local governance.
Patronage of arts, architecture, and learning laid foundation for medieval Indian civilization.