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The Post-Gupta Period (c. 550–750 CE) followed the decline of the Gupta Empire, marking a phase of political fragmentation in northern India and the rise of regional powers in the south. This era saw the emergence of dynasties like the Pushyabhutis, Maitrikas, Chalukyas, and Pallavas, alongside cultural and religious developments. It is a key topic for UPSC Prelims due to its role in shaping early medieval India and its contributions to art, architecture, and religion.
The Gupta Empire’s decline after 550 CE, due to Huna invasions and feudalism, led to political fragmentation. Northern India saw the rise of the Pushyabhuti dynasty, while western and southern India witnessed the emergence of the Maitrikas, Chalukyas, and Pallavas. This period ended with the rise of the Rashtrakutas and Palas around 750 CE.
| Dynasty | Timeline | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Pushyabhuti (Vardhana) | c. 606–647 CE | Harsha’s empire, cultural patronage |
| Maitrikas of Valabhi | c. 475–776 CE | Trade hub, Jainism patronage |
| Chalukyas of Badami | c. 543–753 CE | Deccan dominance, temple architecture |
| Pallavas of Kanchi | c. 275–897 CE | South Indian power, rock-cut temples |
The Pushyabhuti dynasty, based in Thanesar and later Kannauj, was the most prominent northern Indian power. Harsha’s reign marked a brief unification of northern India.
Harsha convened Buddhist assemblies (e.g., Kannauj and Prayag) and patronized scholars like Banabhatta (Harshacharita) and Xuanzang. He promoted trade and diplomacy with China.
The Maitrikas (c. 475–776 CE) ruled Gujarat from Valabhi, emerging as a regional power after the Gupta decline. They were known for trade and Jainism patronage.
The Maitrikas supported Jainism, building temples and libraries. Valabhi was a center of learning, rivaling Nalanda, and a key port for Indo-Arab trade.
The Chalukyas of Badami (c. 543–753 CE) ruled the Deccan, with their capital at Vatapi (Badami). They were a dominant South Indian power, known for temple architecture.
The Chalukyas built rock-cut and structural temples at Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal (UNESCO World Heritage Site). They patronized Hinduism and Jainism and issued gold coins.
The Pallavas (c. 275–897 CE) ruled from Kanchipuram, dominating South India. They are renowned for their contributions to Dravidian architecture and maritime trade.
The Pallavas pioneered rock-cut temples (Mahabalipuram) and structural temples (Kailasanatha Temple). They promoted the Bhakti movement and maritime trade with Southeast Asia.
The Maukharis ruled Kannauj before Harsha, acting as a buffer against the Hunas. They allied with the Guptas through marriage.
A minor dynasty, distinct from the imperial Guptas, they ruled parts of Magadha and were eventually absorbed by Harsha.
A branch of the Chalukyas, they ruled Vengi (Andhra) after Pulakeshin II’s conquests, later becoming independent.
Agriculture remained the economic backbone, with land grants fostering feudalism. Trade continued with Southeast Asia and the Middle East, though on a smaller scale than the Gupta period. Ports like Mamallapuram and Valabhi were active.
The varna system was rigid, with Brahmins gaining prominence due to land grants. The Bhakti movement empowered lower castes through devotional worship. Women’s status varied, with some royal women holding influence.
The period saw the rise of temple-based culture, with advancements in art and architecture. Sanskrit literature thrived, with works like Harshacharita and Mattavilasa Prahasana.
The Bhakti movement flourished, with devotion to Shiva and Vishnu. The Pallavas and Chalukyas built temples, promoting temple-based worship.
Buddhism declined but persisted in centers like Valabhi and Nalanda. Jainism thrived under the Maitrikas and Chalukyas, with patronage for temples and councils.
Philosophical schools like Advaita Vedanta began to take shape. Harsha’s patronage of Buddhism and Hinduism reflected religious syncretism.
The Post-Gupta period’s regional powers set the stage for the tripartite struggle among the Palas, Pratiharas, and Rashtrakutas in the early medieval period.
Temple architecture (Dravidian, Vesara) and the Bhakti movement laid the foundation for medieval Indian culture. Sanskrit literature and art continued to flourish.
Pallava maritime trade spread Indian culture to Southeast Asia, influencing kingdoms like Srivijaya and Funan.