Evaluate Harshavardhana as a conqueror and a patron of learning. Discuss his relations with the Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang.

Harshavardhana (606–647 A.D.) of the Pushyabhuti Dynasty ascended the throne of Thaneshwar and later Kannauj during a period of political chaos. He is remembered as a mighty conqueror and a great patron of learning, whose reign is vividly documented by his court poet Banabhatta and the Chinese pilgrim Hiuen Tsang.

1. Harshavardhana as a Conqueror

Harsha followed a policy of Digvijaya to unify North India:

  • Consolidation of North: He conquered Punjab, Rajasthan, and the Gangetic valley. He took the title "Sakalauttarapathanatha" (Lord of the entire North).
  • Defeat of Sasanka: He successfully avenged his brother's death by defeating Sasanka of Gauda (Bengal).
  • Battle of Narmada: His southward expansion was halted by the Chalukya King Pulakeshin II on the banks of the Narmada. This was his only major military setback, as recorded in the Aihole Inscription.

2. Patron of Learning and Literature

Harsha was a scholar-king who turned Kannauj into a great intellectual center:

  • Personal Works: He was an accomplished writer and authored three famous Sanskrit plays: Ratnavali, Priyadarsika, and Nagananda.
  • Patronage to Scholars: His court was adorned by Banabhatta (author of Harshacharita and Kadambari), Mayura, and Divakara.
  • Nalanda University: Harsha was a great benefactor of Nalanda University. He provided for its maintenance by granting the revenue of 100 villages, ensuring it remained the premier center for Buddhist and secular learning.

3. Relations with Hiuen Tsang (Xuanzang)

The relationship between Harsha and the "Prince of Pilgrims" was one of mutual respect and spiritual bonding:

  • Religious Influence: Hiuen Tsang stayed in Harsha’s court for several years. His influence led Harsha to lean more toward Mahayana Buddhism.
  • Kannauj Assembly (643 A.D.): Harsha organized a grand religious assembly at Kannauj to honor Hiuen Tsang and discuss Mahayana doctrines. It was attended by 20 kings and thousands of scholars.
  • Prayag Assembly: Hiuen Tsang witnessed the Maha Moksha Parishad at Prayag, where Harsha famously gave away all his wealth and belongings in charity every five years.
  • Historical Source: Hiuen Tsang’s travelogue, Si-Yu-Ki, remains the most detailed source for Harsha’s administration, social life, and the state of Buddhism in India.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Harshavardhana was a versatile ruler who balanced military strength with spiritual and intellectual pursuits. While his empire was decentralized and feudal in nature, he provided a brief period of political stability before the Tripartite Struggle. His close tie with Hiuen Tsang represents one of the most successful chapters of Indo-Chinese cultural exchange.