The Tripartite Struggle and the Rise of Kannauj

Introduction

• Tripartite Struggle: 8th-9th centuries.
• Fought between three Indian powers: Pratiharas, Rashtrakutas, and Palas for control of Kannauj.
• Key Question: Why did Kannauj become important during this period?
  • Not as significant during the Gupta period.

The Role of the Maukaris

• Maukaris were responsible for the rise of Kannauj as a political and cultural capital.
• Territory: Core in modern-day Uttar Pradesh

Historical Context

• Gupta Period: Maukaris were feudatories.
• Decline of Gupta Empire: Early 6th Century A.D, followed by Hun occupation.
  • Torman: Hun ruler who conquered Ganga Valley up to Varanasi.
  • Defeated by Aulikara ruler Yashodarman: Led to retreat of Huns.

Establishment of Maukaris Control

• Power vacuum filled by Maukaris led by Ishwar Varman.
• Collaboration between Maukaris and Aulikara to defeat Hun ruler Mihirakula.
• Ishwar Varman: Did not declare independence from Gupta initially.
• Ishan Varman (son): Proclaimed independence using the title Maharaja Dhiraj.

Expansion under Ishan Varman

• Expansionist Policy: Renounced nominal fealty to Imperial Guptas.
• Conflict with Aulikara: Evidenced in incomplete Jaunpur inscription.
• Victory over three powers documented in Haraha inscription:
  • Andhras: Clash with Vishnukundins, possibly leading to matrimonial alliances.
  • Sulikas: Central Asian tribe, not to be confused with the Huns.
  • Gowdas: Likely referring to Imperial and Later Guptas.

Inscriptions Evidence

• Jaunpur Inscription: Reference to Aulikara invasion in Maukaris territory.
• Haraha Inscription:
  • Documented victories over Andhras, Sulikas, and Gowdas.
  • Sulikas debated among scholars, possibly different Central Asian tribe or entities.
  • Ishan Varman’s victories over Gowdas indicated control over Magadh region.

Aftermath of the Conflict

• Formation of matrimonial alliances between Maukaris and other powers.
• Junior Branch of Maukaris: Shifted alliance to support Maukaris of Kannauj.
• Later Gupta Rulers: Defeat and turmoil leading to accession of Maukaris.

Political Ascendancy of Kannauj

• Ishan Varman: Established control over Magadh, claimed the title Maharaja Dhiraj.
• Stabilization and Importance: Kannauj became the political and cultural center of Northern India.

Conclusion

• Rise of Kannauj due to strategic victories and political moves by Maukaris, especially under the leadership of Ishan Varman.
• Decline of Hun and Gupta control set stage for Maukaris ascendancy.

Recommended Viewing

• Video suggested about the Aulikaras for further context on their interaction with Maukaris.