The Indo-Greeks or Bactrian Greeks were Greek rulers. They controlled parts of Northwest India after the fall of the Mauryan Empire. They played a crucial role in the spread of Hellenistic culture. They introduced Greek coinage and art. They also influenced Indian religions like Buddhism.
1. Origin of Indo-Greek Rule in India
- After Alexander the Great’s invasion (326 BCE), Greek rule continued in Bactria (modern Afghanistan).
- The breakaway kingdom of Greco-Bactria expanded into Northwest India (Gandhara, Punjab, parts of UP).
- The first Indo-Greek king was Demetrius I (c. 200 BCE).
2. Major Indo-Greek Rulers
| Ruler | Reign | Key Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Demetrius I | c. 200 BCE – 180 BCE | First Indo-Greek ruler; conquered parts of Punjab |
| Menander I (Milinda) | c. 165 BCE – 145 BCE | Most famous Indo-Greek king; converted to Buddhism |
| Antialcidas | c. 115 BCE | Sent the Greek ambassador Heliodorus to the court of Bhagabhadra (Sunga ruler) |
| Strato II | c. 25 BCE – 10 CE | Last Indo-Greek ruler; defeated by the Indo-Scythians |
3. Administration & Society
- Greek-style governance: Kings ruled as monarchs but followed some Indian traditions.
- Bilingual coinage: Greek rulers issued coins with Greek and Kharosthi scripts.
- Intermixing of cultures: Hellenistic and Indian traditions merged in art and religion.
4. Indo-Greek Contributions to India
(A) Numismatics (Coins)
- First rulers in India to issue gold coins.
- Coins depicted Greek gods (Zeus, Athena, Apollo) and Buddhist symbols.
(B) Spread of Buddhism
- Menander I (Milinda) was a major patron of Buddhism.
- His discussions with Buddhist monk Nagasena are recorded in the Milinda Panha (Questions of Milinda).
- The Indo-Greeks built many stupas and Buddhist monasteries.
(C) Gandhara Art
- Indo-Greeks influenced the Gandhara School of Art, which blended Greek realism with Indian themes.
(D) Trade and Economy
- Indo-Greek rule helped in connecting India with the Mediterranean world.
- Cities like Taxila and Peshawar became major trade hubs.
5. Decline of the Indo-Greek Rule
- Indo-Greek rule ended due to invasions by:
- Indo-Scythians (Sakas) (1st century BCE).
- Indo-Parthians and Kushanas (1st century CE).
6. Importance of Indo-Greeks for Competitive Exams
- First foreign rulers to establish a kingdom in India.
- Introduced advanced coinage and Greek artistic traditions.
- Spread of Buddhism: Menander I’s conversion played a major role in its growth.
- Influenced Indian sculpture and architecture, leading to Gandhara Art.
7. Sample Questions for Competitive Exams
Prelims-Based Questions (Objective Type)
- Who was the first Indo-Greek ruler to establish rule in India?
- (a) Menander I
- (b) Demetrius I
- (c) Antialcidas
- (d) Alexander the Great
- Answer: (b) Demetrius I
- Which Indo-Greek ruler is associated with Buddhism and the Milinda Panha?
- (a) Antialcidas
- (b) Demetrius I
- (c) Menander I
- (d) Strato II
- Answer: (c) Menander I
- Which art style was influenced by Indo-Greek rule?
- (a) Gandhara Art
- (b) Mathura Art
- (c) Pala Art
- (d) Ajanta Paintings
- Answer: (a) Gandhara Art
- Which Indian script was commonly used on Indo-Greek coins?
- (a) Devanagari
- (b) Brahmi
- (c) Kharosthi
- (d) Tamil-Brahmi
- Answer: (c) Kharosthi
- Who was the last Indo-Greek ruler in India?
- (a) Demetrius I
- (b) Menander I
- (c) Strato II
- (d) Antialcidas
- Answer: (c) Strato II
Mains-Based Questions (Descriptive Type)
- Discuss the impact of Indo-Greek rule on Indian society, economy, and religion.
- Explain the role of Menander I in the spread of Buddhism in India.
- Describe the features of Indo-Greek coinage and its historical significance.
This material is structured to help you in your exam preparation. Let me know if you need a mind map or timeline! 🚀
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