Composition of Prayag Prashasti
The Prayag Prashasti is a Sanskrit inscription composed in praise of the ancient Indian emperor Samudragupta. It was inscribed on a pillar located in Allahabad (Prayag), Uttar Pradesh, India. The inscription is dated to the 4th century CE and is considered one of the most important historical sources for understanding the reign of Samudragupta.

Author of Prayag Prashasti
The author of the Prayag Prashasti is Banabhatta. Banabhatta was a renowned Sanskrit scholar and poet who lived during the Gupta period. He was the court poet of Emperor Harsha and is best known for his epic work, the Harshacharita. The Prayag Prashasti is one of Banabhatta's early works and showcases his mastery of Sanskrit poetry and his deep admiration for Samudragupta's achievements.

Content and Significance
The Prayag Prashasti is a panegyric, a form of public praise, composed in ornate Sanskrit verse. It begins with an invocation to various Hindu deities and then proceeds to extol the virtues and accomplishments of Samudragupta. The inscription provides a detailed account of Samudragupta's military conquests, administrative policies, and patronage of the arts.

The Prayag Prashasti is significant because it provides valuable insights into the political and cultural landscape of ancient India during the Gupta period. It highlights Samudragupta's military prowess, his successful campaigns against various kingdoms, and his diplomatic skills in forming alliances. It also emphasizes his patronage of scholars, poets, and artists, which contributed to the flourishing of art, literature, and intellectual pursuits during his reign.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the Prayag Prashasti is a Sanskrit inscription composed by Banabhatta in praise of Samudragupta. It serves as an important historical source for understanding the Gupta period and sheds light on the achievements and policies of Samudragupta. Banabhatta's poetic skills and admiration for the emperor are evident in this panegyric, which eloquently captures the grandeur and significance of Samudragupta's reign.