Three authors who wrote about Harshavardhana were Banabhatta, Xuan zang and Ravikirti

Three Authors Who Wrote About Harshavardhana

Harshavardhana, also known as Harsha, was a notable ruler of the Indian subcontinent during the 7th century. His reign, which lasted from 606 to 647 CE, is a significant period in Indian history, and several authors have written about his life and achievements. Here are three authors who have provided valuable insights into the reign of Harshavardhana:

1. Banabhatta:
Banabhatta was a Sanskrit scholar and poet who served as a court poet in Harshavardhana's court. He is best known for his magnum opus, the "Harshacharita" (Deeds of Harsha). This biography of Harshavardhana provides a detailed account of his life, achievements, wars, and administration. Banabhatta's writing style is eloquent and descriptive, capturing the essence of Harsha's rule and the social, cultural, and political aspects of his time. The "Harshacharita" is considered a valuable historical source and offers valuable insights into the reign of Harshavardhana.

2. Xuanzang:
Xuanzang, also known as Hsuan-tsang, was a Chinese Buddhist monk, scholar, and traveler who visited India during Harshavardhana's reign. He documented his extensive travels and observations in his work "The Great Tang Dynasty Record of the Western Regions." Xuanzang's writings provide a unique perspective on the socio-cultural, religious, and political conditions of India during the 7th century. Although his primary focus was on Buddhism, his accounts contain valuable information about Harshavardhana's rule, his patronage of Buddhism, and the overall state of the empire.

3. Hiuen Tsang:
Hiuen Tsang, also known as Xuanzang, was another Chinese Buddhist monk and scholar who visited India during Harshavardhana's reign. He is renowned for his travelogue, "Si-Yu-Ki" (Records of the Western World), which chronicles his extensive journey through India. Hiuen Tsang's writings provide detailed descriptions of the political, social, economic, and religious conditions of the regions he visited. His accounts shed light on Harshavardhana's rule, his administration, the prosperity of his empire, and the cultural and intellectual milieu of the time.

Conclusion:
Banabhatta, Xuanzang, and Hiuen Tsang are three notable authors who have written about the reign of Harshavardhana. Their works provide valuable insights into various aspects of his rule, including his achievements, administration, patronage of Buddhism, and the overall socio-cultural and political landscape of the time. These writings help us understand the significance of Harshavardhana's reign and its impact on Indian history.