Introduction
- The Pushyabhuti Dynasty ruled parts of North India between the 6th and 7th centuries CE.
- The Pushyabhuti Dynasty is also known as the Vardhana Dynasty.
- Harshavardhana (606–647 CE) was its most famous ruler.
Founding and Early Rulers
- Pushyabhuti was the founder of the dynasty, ruling from Thanesar (Haryana).
- Prabhakaravardhana (father of Harsha) expanded the kingdom and resisted the Huna invasions.
- Rajyavardhana (elder brother of Harsha) succeeded Prabhakaravardhana but was killed by the ruler of Gauda (Bengal).
Harshavardhana (606–647 CE)
- Harshavardhana became king after the death of his brother.
- Capital: Kannauj (shifted from Thanesar).
- Expanded his empire across North and Central India.
- Conquered Bengal, Odisha, and parts of the Deccan.
- Defeated by Pulakeshin II (Chalukya Dynasty) on the banks of the Narmada River.
Administration
- Feudal system – Kingdom divided into provinces, districts, and villages.
- Harsha personally led his army and was an efficient administrator.
- Maintained diplomatic relations with China (Chinese traveler Xuanzang visited his court).
Religion & Culture
- Initially a Shaivite Hindu, but later became a patron of Buddhism.
- Organized religious assemblies at Prayag (Allahabad).
- Promoted Nalanda University as a major Buddhist learning center.
- Patronized Sanskrit literature – Bana Bhatta wrote Harshacharita.
Decline of the Pushyabhuti Dynasty
- Harsha died in 647 CE without an heir.
- His empire disintegrated due to feudalism and lack of strong leadership.
- Later, Yashovarman of Kannauj took over the region.
Significance of the Pushyabhuti Dynasty
✔ Unified North India under Harshavardhana.
✔ Promoted Buddhism and learning (Nalanda University).
✔ Advanced literature (Harshacharita, Ratnavali).
✔ Trade and diplomacy with China.
MCQs on Pushyabhuti Dynasty
1. Who was the most famous ruler of the Pushyabhuti Dynasty?
a) Prabhakaravardhana
b) Rajyavardhana
c) Harshavardhana
d) Pulakeshin II
Answer: c) Harshavardhana
2. What was the capital of Harshavardhana’s empire?
a) Thanesar
b) Ujjain
c) Pataliputra
d) Kannauj
Answer: d) Kannauj
3. Which ruler defeated Harshavardhana?
a) Chandragupta I
b) Pulakeshin II
c) Samudragupta
d) Rajaraja Chola
Answer: b) Pulakeshin II
4. Who wrote the biography of Harshavardhana?
a) Kalidasa
b) Bana Bhatta
c) Xuanzang
d) Vishakhadatta
Answer: b) Bana Bhatta
5. Which Chinese traveler visited Harsha’s court?
a) Fa-Hien
b) Hiuen Tsang (Xuanzang)
c) Megasthenes
d) I-Tsing
Answer: b) Hiuen Tsang (Xuanzang)
Short Answer Questions
1. Who founded the Pushyabhuti Dynasty?
The Pushyabhuti Dynasty was founded by Pushyabhuti in Thanesar (Haryana).
2. What was Harshavardhana’s capital?
Harshavardhana shifted his capital from Thanesar to Kannauj.
3. Who defeated Harshavardhana?
Harshavardhana was defeated by Pulakeshin II (Chalukya Dynasty) on the banks of the Narmada River.
4. What was Harsha’s religious policy?
- He was initially a Shaivite Hindu but later supported Buddhism.
- He organized a grand assembly at Prayag for religious discussions.
5. Name a famous book written about Harshavardhana.
Harshacharita, written by Bana Bhatta, describes his life and rule.
Conclusion
The Pushyabhuti Dynasty, under Harshavardhana, played a key role in unifying North India. It contributed significantly to Buddhism, education, literature, and administration.
Would you like a timeline, mind map, or quick revision PDF for this topic? 😊