Encyclopaedia on India

Introduction The Mahabharata, one of the greatest epics of ancient India, narrates the fierce rivalry between two branches of the Kuru dynasty the Pandavas and the Kauravas. Though both descended from King Kuru, they embodied opposing values. The Pandavas , guided by virtue and justice, represented dharma (righteousness), while the Kauravas, led by Duryodhana, symbolized envy, greed, and ambition, aligning with adharma (unrighteousness). Their conflict culminated in the legendary Battle of Kurukshetra, a war that forever reshaped the destiny of Bharatavarsha (India). Etymology of Kaurava The term Kaurava broadly refers to all descendants of King Kuru, which technically includes both the Pandavas and the Kauravas. However, in common usage, it specifically denotes the hundred sons of King Dhritarashtra and Queen Gandhari, excluding the Pandavas, who were the sons of Pandu. Birth of the Kauravas Dhritarashtra, blind from birth, married Gandhari, the princess of Gandhara. Gandhar...

Introduction The Maratha Empire, founded by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, rose to prominence in the 17th and 18th centuries as one of the most powerful forces in India. Stretching from Attock in present-day Pakistan to Bengal in the east, the Marathas established a vast confederacy. Their history is marked by numerous battles against the Mughals, Afghans, and European powers, which shaped the destiny of medieval India. These battles not only reflected The Military Strength of the Marathas but also their determination to safeguard Hindu sovereignty and regional independence. Early Treaties and Expansion In 1717, a Mughal emissary signed a treaty with the Marathas, recognizing their authority in the Deccan. This marked the beginning of Maratha influence in Delhi. By 1718, their presence in northern India grew stronger. After the death of Balaji Vishwanath in 1721, his son Baji Rao I became Peshwa and shifted the capital back to Pune from Raigad. Baji Rao I’s campaigns were instru...

Introduction The Vijayanagar Empire stands as one of the most remarkable epochs in South Indian history. For over three centuries, it flourished under four successive dynasties the Sangama, Saluva, Tuluva, and finally the Aravidu. Each dynasty contributed to the empire’s political consolidation, cultural brilliance, and architectural grandeur. Yet, it was the Aravidu Dynasty, the last Hindu ruling family of Vijayanagar, that presided over its decline between the mid‑16th and mid‑17th centuries. Their reign was marked by resilience and determination, but despite their efforts, they could not restore the glory once achieved under celebrated rulers like Krishnadeva Raya. Rise of the Aravidu Dynasty The Aravidus rose to prominence in the aftermath of the catastrophic Battle of Talikota in 1565 CE. This battle, fought between Vijayanagar and a coalition of the Deccan Sultanates Bijapur, Ahmadnagar, Golconda, and Bidar resulted in the sacking of the capital city and the destruction of ...

Introduction Among the most distinguished rulers of the 7th century, Harshavardhana stands as a towering figure in Indian history. His reign marked a crucial transition from the ancient to the medieval era, a time when regional kingdoms vied for supremacy after the decline of the Gupta Empire. Belonging to the Pushyabhuti (Vardhana) dynasty, Harsha rose to prominence in northern India and established a vast dominion. Though born into a Hindu household, he later embraced Buddhism, becoming a celebrated patron of Buddhist learning and culture. His rule is remembered not only for military campaigns but also for administrative reforms, cultural patronage, and his efforts to unify diverse regions under a single authority. Ascension of Harshavardhana Harsha was born around 590 CE to King Prabhakaravardhana of Thanesar. His early life was marked by tragedy and political upheaval. After the untimely death of his elder brother Rajyavardhana, who was treacherously killed by Shashanka of Ga...