1

PRARAMBH 2026
Ancient History – Mains Question 19

1. Analyze the administrative, religious, and cultural developments during the reign of Harshavardhana.
(10 Marks, 150 Words)

How to Approach the Question:

❖ Introduction: Give a brief introduction about the Pushyabhuti Dynasty within 30 -40 words.
❖ Body: Briefly discuss the administrative, religious, and cultural developments in 80 -90 words.
❖ Conclusion: Conclude by highlighting the aforementioned points and mention how glorious the period
turned out to be under Harsha within 30-40 words.
Answer:
The Pushyabhuti dynasty, also known as the Vardhana dynasty, ruled in the northern part of India during
the 6th and 7th centuries. The Pushyabhuti dynasty grew over northern and central India during Harsha's
reign (606 AD - 647 AD), encompassing places like Thanesar, Kanyakubja (Kannauj), and the Gangetic
plains. He was successful in avenging his brother’s death by defeating Shansanka of the Gauda dynasty,
implying his greatness.
The administrative, religious, and cultural developments during the period of Harshvardhana are described
below:
❖ Administrative Framework:
➢ The Pushyabhuti dynasty had a monarchical form of government. The monarch was the supreme
authority and possessed great power.
➢ The majority of northern and northwest India was part of Harsha's enormous dominion.
➢ He separated the enormous country he ruled into provinces or regions, each of which was
administered by Samantas, the provincial governors, or other authorities. The Bhuktis, or
provinces, were further split up into districts and villages.
➢ Local government was administered by village councils, or Ganas, which were crucial in
upholding sanctity and order at the local level.
➢ The feudal system of representative government was still in place. Land was awarded to high-
ranking officers.
➢ During this period, land gifts were also typical and were provided to the priestly class as
compensation for their special services rendered to the state. But, from Hiuen Tsang’s accounts,
we get to know that law and order were not well maintained.
❖ Religious Framework:
➢ Harsha adhered to a policy of religious tolerance. He was a Shaiva in his early years. He gradually
became a great patron of Buddhism and adopted Hinayana Buddhism. Later on, due to the
influence of Hiuen Tsang, he converted to Mahayana Buddhism.
 2

➢ Being a devoted follower of Buddhism, he called a large gathering in Kannauj to publicize the
doctrines of Mahayana widely. Harsha who was very fond of Hieun Tsang was honored here at
Kannauj for his contributions.
➢ Every five years, Harsha convened the famous Prayaga or Kanyakubja Assembly, a grand
religious gathering that included Buddhists, Hindus, and Jains.
❖ Cultural Developments:
➢ Harshacharita was written by Banabhatta, the court poet at Harsha's court. This ornate-styled
story provides us with glowing details about the early years of his patron, Harsha. Harsha was a
patron of the arts and learning.
➢ Harsha himself is believed to have written three plays called the Priyadarshika, Ratnavali, and
Nagananda.
➢ He made huge endowments to Nalanda University and intellectuals and scholars. Under him, poets
such as Banabhatta flourished and composed many literary works.
Harsha’s contribution in the fields of literature, military, and administration is commendable. His
policy of religious tolerance made him different from other rulers. He was patronized by many because
of his fervent nature. With the arrival of foreign travelers and scholars, the period became more
prestigious. Their records portray how glorious the period had been and how magnanimously Harsha
contributed to the well-being of his empire and also to academics.

