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{{short description|Ruler of Kamarupa kingdom in ancient India from 600-650 CE}}
{{short description|Ruler of the Kamarupa kingdom in ancient India from 600 to 650 CE}}
{{More citations needed|date=April 2025}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2019}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2019}}
{{Use Indian English|date=October 2019}}
{{Use Indian English|date=October 2019}}
{{Peacock|date=June 2019}}
{{Infobox royalty
{{Infobox royalty
|name = Bhaskaravarman
| name         = Bhaskaravarman
|title =
| succession  = King of [[Kamarupa]]
|image = File:Kamarupa Kingdom of Bhaskar Varman.png
| reign        = 600–650 CE
|caption = The Kamarupa kingdom of Bhaskaravarman
| title       =  
| image       = File:Kamarupa_Kingdom_of_Bhaskar_Varman.png
| caption     = The 7th-century Kamarupa kingdom under Bhaskaravarman.<ref name="acharya_map">{{harvcol|Dutta|2008|p=282}}, reproduced from {{harvcol|Acharya|1968}}.</ref>  The kingdom extended to the east up to the hills  leading to China,<ref>"He travelled from Pun-na-fa-tan-na (Pundravardhana) on the east more than 900 ''li'' or 150 miles; crossed a large river and reached Kia-no-leu-po (Kamarupa).  The ''T'ang Shu'' refers to this large river as Ka-lo-tu, which undoubtedly meant the Karatoya. The pilgrim further stated that to the east of the country was a series of hills which reached as far as the confines of China." {{harvcol|Baruah|1986|p=75}}</ref> according to the Chinese pilgrim [[Xuanzang]] who visited Bhaskarbarman's court during his reign around 643 CE.
}}
}}
{{Kamarupa}}
{{Assam History}}
{{Assam History}}
'''Bhaskaravarman''' ({{IPA|bʱaːskərə'vərmən}}) (600–650), the last of the [[Varman dynasty]], was perhaps the most illustrious of the kings of the medieval [[Kamarupa]].  After being captured by the Gauda king during the reign of his father, he was able to re-establish the rule of the Varman's. He made political alliances with [[Harshavardhana]] of Thaneswar, against the alliance of the Gauda and East [[Malwa]].<ref name="sen">{{Cite book |last=Sen |first=Sailendra |title=A Textbook of Medieval Indian History |publisher=Primus Books |year=2013 |isbn=978-9-38060-734-4 |page=39}}</ref> He was visited by [[Xuanzang]] and Li Yi-piao, the envoy of the [[Tang dynasty]] who have left accounts of the king and the kingdom.
'''Bhaskaravarman''' (600–650 CE) was king of [[Kamarupa]] and the last ruler of the [[Varman dynasty]]. He restored Varman rule after his father, [[Susthitavarman]], was defeated, and allied with [[Harsha]]vardhana of Thaneswar during a conflict against [[Kingdom of Gauda|Gauda]] and East Malwa.<ref>{{cite book |last=Sen |first=Sailendra Nath |title=A Textbook of Medieval Indian History |publisher=Primus Books |year=2013 |isbn=978-9380607344 |page=39}}</ref>{{sfn|Baruah|1986|p=}}
 
==Background==
Bhaskaravarman succeeded his brother [[Supratisthitavarman]] and was the first Kamarupa king to claim descent from [[Narakasura]], [[Bhagadatta]], and [[Vajradatta]].<ref name="Sharma 1978 xiv">{{cite book |last=Sharma |first=Mukunda Madhava |title=Inscriptions of Ancient Assam |publisher=Gauhati University |year=1978 |page=xiv}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Bhaskaravarman, Bhāskaravarman: 3 definitions |url=https://www.wisdomlib.org/definition/bhaskaravarman |access-date=2025-07-26 |website=Wisdom Library |date=21 January 2021 }}</ref> He issued the Dubi and Nidhanpur [[copper]] plate grants.<ref>{{cite book |last=Sharma |first=Mukunda Madhava |title=Inscriptions of Ancient Assam |publisher=Gauhati University |year=1978}}</ref> A clay seal bearing his name was found at [[Nalanda district|Nalanda]].<ref>{{cite journal |last=Dikshit |first=K.N. |year=1922 |title=Epigraphical Notes of the Nalanda Finds |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.108415/page/n83/mode/2up |journal=Epigraphia Indica |volume=12 |pages=78–80}}</ref>


Bhaskaravarman came to power after his brother [[Supratisthitavarman]] had died. He was the first Kamarupa king to claim descent from the mythical [[Narakasura]], Bhagadatta and Vajradatta.<ref>"The mythical ancestors of (the Varman) line of rulers were Naraka, Bhagadatta and Vajradatta." {{harvcol|Sharma|1978|p=0.29}}</ref>  After his death Salasthambha, who established the [[Mlechchha dynasty]], acquired power in Kamarupa Kingdom.
After [[Susthitavarman|Susthitavarman's]] defeat by [[Mahasenagupta]], Supratisthitavarman briefly ruled but died without an heir. Bhaskaravarman then took the throne around 600 CE.{{sfn|Gait|1906|pp=53–55}}


He issued the Dubi and [[Nidhanpur copperplate inscription|Nidhanpur]] copper plate grants, re-issued after his ancestor Bhutivarman, and a clay seal found in [[Nalanda]].
== Rivals ==
[[Mahasenagupta]] allied with [[Shashanka]] and controlled northern and central [[Bengal]] after defeating [[Susthitavarman]].{{sfn|Barua|1933}} After Mahasenagupta's death, Shashanka ruled Bengal. Bhaskaravarman's principal rivals were Shashanka and [[Prabhakaravardhana]], the father of [[Harshavardhana]].{{sfn|Baruah|1986}}


==Background==
==Alliance with Harsha==
After [[Susthitavarman]] was defeated by Mahasenagupta, his son [[Supratisthitavarman]] came to power, who built Kamarupa's elephant army but died prematurely without an heir. Thus, the younger son, Bhaskaravarman, came to power in Kamarupa.<ref>{{cite book |title=Kamarupa Sasanavali |page=31 }}</ref>{{better source|date=June 2019}} Even after he succeeded to the throne {{circa|600 CE}}, Bhaskaravarman was known as ''kumara'' (prince), probably because he was a bachelor throughout his life.{{sfn|Barua|1933|p=58}}{{better source|date=June 2019}}
After Shashanka killed Harshavardhana's brother and successor, Rajyavardhana, Bhaskaravarman sent an envoy, Hangsavega, to Thaneswar to form an alliance. The event is recorded by Bana and Xuanzang.<ref>{{cite book |last=Sircar |first=D.C. |title= The Comprehensive History of Assam : Political History |publisher=Publication Board Assam |year=1990 |editor-last=Barpujari |editor-first=H.K. |volume=1 |pages=94–171}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Beal |first=Samuel |title=Si-Yu-Ki |year=1884}}</ref>


==Rivals==
==Chinese accounts==
Mahasenagupta, in alliance with Shashanka, had defeated on Susthitavarman and took control over north and central Bengal. After the death of Mahasenagupta Shashanka became the ruler of this portion.<ref>{{cite book |title=Banger Jatiya Itihas, Rajanya Kanda }}</ref>{{better source|date=June 2019}}  On ascending the throne Bhaskaravarman found two strong rival powers growing in [[North India|northern India]], viz. one in central and northern Bengal under Shashanka and the other in [[Central India|mid-India]] under Prabhakaravardhana, the father of [[Harshavardhana]].{{sfn|Barua|1933|p=58}}{{better source|date=June 2019}}


When Shashanka murdered Rajyavardhana who had succeeded Prabhakaravardhana as the king at Thaneswar, Bhaskaravarman sent an envoy, Hangsavega, to form an alliance. This incident by both Bana and Xuanzang.{{sfn|Barua|1933|p=62}}{{better source|date=June 2019}}
===Xuanzang's account===
{{Kamarupa}}
Chinese pilgrim, [[Xuanzang]] visited Bhaskaravarman's court around 643 CE, describing the capital's circumference as thirty [[Li (unit)|Li]] (~9 miles (14.48&nbsp;km)). He described Bhaskaravarman as descendant of [[Narayana]] and a [[Brahmin|Brahmana]] by caste who patronized [[Buddhism]], although he was not a Buddhist himself.<ref>{{cite book |last=Beal |first=Samuel |url=https://archive.org/details/siyukibuddhistre02bealuoft/page/196/mode/2up |title=Si-Yu-Ki |year=1884 |page=196}}</ref>


==Alliance with Harsha==
===Dao Xuan's account===
The Harsha Charita of Bana gives a detailed account of Hangsavega's meeting with Harsha. Plying him with gifts and praise, the diplomat was able to effect an offensive and defensive alliance between the two kings.
Origin myth mentioned by Xuanzang diverges from the account presented in the book ''She-Kia-Fang-Che,'' which describes Bhaskaravarman as a [[Kshatriya]] of Chinese ancestry.<ref name="Sharma 1978 xiv"/>
 
===Wang Xuance's account===
After 648 CE, the envoy [[Wang Xuance]] visited [[Harsha|Harshavardhana's]] court but was expelled by [[Yashovarman]]. Wang returned with an army, captured Yashovarman, and brought him to China. Bhaskaravarman aided Wang with supplies.{{sfn|Barua|1933}} Chinese records call Bhaskaravarman Ch-Kieu-mo (Sri-Kumara) and Kamarupa Kia-mu-lu. He gave Wang a map and requested an image of [[Laozi]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Ghosh |first=Suchandra |year=2012 |title=Karnasuvarna |url=https://en.banglapedia.org/index.php?title=Karnasuvarna |access-date=2025-07-26 |website=Banglapedia |publisher=Asiatic Society of Bangladesh}}</ref>


The Nidhanpur copper-plate grant was issued from Bhaskaravarman's victorious camp at Karnasuvarna,<ref>{{cite book |title=Epigraphia Indica Vol XII |page=78 }}</ref> the erstwhile capital of Shashanka.
==Kamarupa of Bhaskaravarman==
According to the travel account of [[Xuanzang]], Kamarupa was entered after crossing the [[Karatoya River]]. He described the eastern boundary of the kingdom as a line of hills near the Chinese frontier and estimated its circumference at nearly 1,700 miles (approximately 2,736 kilometres).<ref name=":0" />


== Alliance with Chinese ==
Xuanzang recorded descriptions of the population using descriptive terms typical of seventh-century travel accounts. He noted that the inhabitants were of short stature and described them as having a yellow complexion, language that reflects contemporary ethnographic conventions rather than modern classifications. He observed that their speech differed little from that of Central India and characterized them as both violent in disposition and diligent in learning.
After 648 CE, the Chinese invaded India to avenge the insult done to Chinese representatives at the court of [[Harsha]]vardhana by the minister who usurped the throne of Harshavardhana after his death. The minister was defeated and captured. In the conflict, Bhaskaravarman aided the Chinese with supplies of cattle, horse and accoutrement.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.32096|title=Kirata-jana-krti|last=Chatterji|first=Suniti Kumar|date=1951|publisher=|isbn=|location=|pages=[https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.32096/page/n120 90], 92}}</ref>


==Xuanzang's account==
In religious matters, Xuanzang wrote that Bhaskaravarman followed [[Hindus|Hindu]] religious traditions and was not [[Buddhists|Buddhist]]. He reported that the population worshipped Hindu deities and that Buddhism was not widely practiced, noting the presence of hundreds of temples and multiple religious systems with many adherents. He stated that Buddhists were present in the kingdom but practiced their devotion discreetly.
The Chinese traveller, [[Xuanzang]], visited Bhaskaravarman in his court on his invitation, noting the King patronised Buddhism though a non-Buddhist.<ref>{{Harvcol|Gait|1906|pp=53–55}}</ref> According to the text of the Si-yu-ki, the circumference of the capital of Kamarupa was thirty li and the king who was Bhaskaravarman, a Brahman by caste.{{citation needed|date=June 2019}} Xuanzang translated  into sanskrit  the Taoist text, Daodejing at the request of Bhaskar Varman<ref>{{Cite book|last=Chung|first=Tan|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=5rtGvnMrCTQC&pg=PA149|title=Across the Himalayan Gap: An Indian Quest for Understanding China|date=December 1998|publisher=Gyan Publishing House|isbn=978-81-212-0617-4|language=en}}</ref>


==Bhaskaravarman of kamrupa==
Xuanzang also recorded information conveyed to him by local inhabitants, who said that hills extended eastward as far as the borders of China. The people living in these hill regions were described as resembling those referred to as the “Man of the Lao,” reflecting second-hand reports and the classificatory language of the period.<ref name=":0" />
Xuanzang, in his travelogue, noted that he crossed a great river [[Karatoya river|Karatoya]] before entering the Kamarupa. The eastern boundary was a line of hills close to the [[China|Chinese]] frontier. He also said Kamarupa was nearly 1700 miles in circumference. The climate was genial. He mentioned that the people were are short height and of yellow complexion and Bhaskar Varman was Hindu and not Buddhist. The people were honest. Their speech differed a little from that of mid-India. They were of violent disposition but were persevering students. They worshipped the Devas and did not believe in Buddhism. The Deva-temples were some hundreds in number and the various systems had some myriads of professed adherents. The few Buddhists in the country performed their acts of devotion in secret. The pilgrim ascertained from the people that to the east of the country was a series of hills which reached as far as the confines of China. The inhabitants of these hills were akin to the "Man of the Lao". In the south-east of the country elephants were plentiful.<ref>{{Harvcol|Gait|1926|pp=23–24}}</ref>


===Description===
===Description===
Xuanzang notes that Kamarupa was low and moist, and that the crops were regular. [[Cocoa bean|Cocoa-nuts]] and [[jackfruit]]s grew abundantly and were appreciated by the people. The description provided is around the present-day [[Guwahati]].
Xuanzang notes that Kamarupa was low and moist and that the crops were regular. Coconuts and jackfruits grew abundantly and were appreciated by the people. The described location is around present-day [[Guwahati]].<ref name=":0">{{cite book |last=Beal |first=Samuel |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ct4GAAAAQAAJ&pg=PA196 |title=Si-Yu-Ki: Buddhist Records of the Western World |publisher=Trubner & Co. |year=1884 |volume=II |page=196}}</ref>


According to the account given in the ''Si-yu-ki,'' the circumference of Kamarupa was about {{convert|1700|mi|km}}. As Edward Albert Gait has pointed out, this circumference must have included the whole of the [[Brahmaputra Valley|Assam valley]], [[Surma River|Surma]] valley, parts of [[North Bengal]], and parts of [[Mymensingh]].
According to the account given in the Si-yu-ki, the circumference of Kamarupa was about 1,700 miles (2,735.88&nbsp;km). As Edward Albert Gait has pointed out, this circumference must have included the whole of the [[Assam]] valley, Surma valley, parts of North Bengal, and parts of Mymensingh.{{sfn|Gait|1906|pp=23–24}}


===Religion===
===Religion===
Bhaskaravarman was a worshiper of [[Shiva]], though he had great reverence for learned Buddhist priests and professors of his time, and was distinctly inclined towards [[Buddhism]]. The general populace worshiped the ''Devas'' worshiped in many temples, and adherents of Buddhism practised devotion secretly.
Bhaskaravarman was primarily a worshiper of [[Shiva]] but showed respect towards [[Bhikkhu|Buddhist monks]] and scholars, reflecting an inclination towards Buddhism.<ref>https://archive.org/details/siyukibuddhistre02bealuoft/page/196/mode/2up</ref> The general populace worshipped various Devas in temples, while Buddhist followers often practiced their devotion in secret.<ref>https://books.google.com/books?id=ekf7v9yJ6k4C&pg=PA45</ref>


===Culture===
===Culture===
According to Xuanzang, the people of Kamarupa were honest, albeit with a violent disposition, but were persevering students. The people were are short in height and of yellow complexion. Their speech differed from that of mid-India. The Nidhanpur grant issued from Karnasuvarna, contained local literary forms and offices not found in subsequent Kamarupa inscriptions
During his reign, the Nidhanpur copper plate grant documents unique local literary forms, while Chinese accounts describe diplomatic exchanges with Harshavardhana's court.<ref name="Wakhal Nachom">{{cite web | title=Wakhal Nachom | date=2006 | url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.465125/page/n47/mode/2up }}</ref> The Karnasuvarna copper plate grant also features distinct regional literary styles not found in later inscriptions.<ref>[https://www.jstor.org/stable/44143290]{{Dead link|date=September 2025}}</ref>


===Art and industry===
===Art and industry===
The gifts from Bhaskaravarman to Harshavardhana contained mostly products of the land—royal umbrella of exquisite workmanship studded with valuable gems, [[puthi]]s written on Sachi-bark, dyed cane-mats, Agar-essence, musk in silk-bags, liquid [[molasses]] in earthen-pots, utensils, paintings, a pair of [[Ruddy shelduck|Brahmini ducks]] in a cage made of cane and overlaid with gold, and a considerable quantity of silk-fabrics indicating industry was rudimentary.
His gifts to Harshavardhana included land products such as a royal umbrella studded with gems, puthis on sachi-bark, cane mats, agar essence, musk, molasses, utensils, paintings, and silk fabrics, as recorded in contemporary accounts.<ref name="Wakhal Nachom"/><ref>https://books.google.com/books?id=L7iV6DwAuQAC&pg=PA67</ref>


==Nidhanpur inscription==
==Nidhanpur inscription==
[[File:Nidhanpur Inscription of Bhaskar Varman.jpg|thumb|180x180px|<div style="text-align: center;"><small>''[[Nidhanpur]] inscription of Bhaskaravarman</small></div>]]
{{main|Nidhanpur copperplate inscription}}
{{main|Nidhanpur copperplate inscription}}
 
[[File:Nidhanpur Inscription of Bhaskar Varman.jpg|thumb|180x180px|<div style="text-align: center;"><small>''[[Nidhanpur]] inscription of Bhaskaravarman''</small></div>]] The Nidhanpur copper plate inscription describes him using traditional royal epithets, stating he “dispelled the darkness of the Kali age” and “upheld Arya religion with his revenues”—typical ceremonial language found in contemporary royal inscriptions. He is metaphorically adorned with fame from defeated kings’ praises and compared to legendary figures for charity and wisdom.{{tone inline|date=September 2025}} The inscription attributes to him qualities typical of royal panegyrics, including learning and military strength.<ref>Sharma, Mukunda Madhava (1978). ''Inscriptions of Ancient Assam''. Gauhati University.</ref>
In his Nidhanpur copper-plate inscription Bhaskaravarman is said to have revealed the light of the [[Arya]] religion by dispelling the accumulated darkness of [[Kali Yuga|Kali age]], by making a judicious application of his revenues; who has equalled the prowess of the whole ring of his feudatories by the strength of his own arm, who has derived many a way of enjoyment for his hereditary subjects whose loyal devotion to him was augmented by his steadiness, modesty and affability, who is adorned with a wonderful ornament of splendid fame made of the flowery words of praise variously composed by hundreds of kings vanquished by him in battle; whose virtuous activities, like those of Sivi, were applied in making gifts for the benefit of others; whose powers, as of a second preceptor of the Gods (Brihaspati), was recognised by others on account of his skill in devising and applying the means of politics that appear in suitable moments; whose own conduct was adorned by learning, valour, patience, prowess and good actions".<ref>{{cite book |title=Epigraphia Indica Vol XII |page=78 }}</ref>


==Nalanda seal==
==Nalanda seal==
[[File:Seal of Bhaskar Varman Found at Nalanda dated 643 A.D.jpg|thumb|180x180px|The Nalanda seal of Bhaskaravarman (dated 643 CE)]]
[[File:Seal of Bhaskar Varman Found at Nalanda dated 643 A.D.jpg|thumb|180x180px|The Nalanda seal of Bhaskaravarman (dated 643 CE)]]
Bhaskaravarman's close connection with Harsha and Xuanzang led to his association with the famous Buddhist university of Magadha, for his seal has been discovered at the site of [[Nalanda]] in the company of two fragmentary seals of Harsha. The seals were found by Dr. Spooner during the excavation of the ruins of Nalanda in the year 1917–18. The text of the seal is as follows:<ref>{{cite book |title=J.B.O.R.S Vol VI|page=151 }}</ref>
Bhaskaravarman's seal, dated 643 CE, was discovered at Nalanda with Harshvardhana seals during the 1917–18 excavations. The inscription lists royal names and may have accompanied an invitation to Xuanzang.<ref>Dikshit, K.N. (1922). "Epigraphical Notes of the Nalanda Finds." ''Epigraphia Indica'', Vol. XII.</ref> The presence of both kings’ seals suggests they visited Nalanda


{{quote|<poem>Sri Ganapati Varma Sri Yajnavatyam Sri Mahendra Varma.
{{blockquote|<poem>Sri Ganapati Varma Sri Yajnavatyam Sri Mahendra Varma.
Sri Suvratayam Sri Narayanavarma Sri Devavatyam Sri Mahabhuta Varma.  
Sri Suvratayam Sri Narayanavarma Sri Devavatyam Sri Mahabhuta Varman.  
Sri Vijnana Vatyam Sri Chandramukha Varma Sri Bhogavatyam.  
Sri Vijnana Vatyam Sri Chandramukha Varman Sri Bhogavatyam.  
Sri Sthitavarma tena Sri Nayana Sobhayam (Sri Susthitavarma)  
Sri Sthitavarma tena Sri Nayana Sobhayam (Sri Susthitavarman)  
(Sri Syama Lakshmyam) Sri Supratisthita Varma.
(Sri Syama Lakshmyam) Sri Supratisthita Varman.
Sri Bhaskara Varmeti.</poem>}}
Sri Bhaskara Varmeti.</poem>}}


K.N. Dikshit, in his "Epigraphical notes of the Nalanda finds", thinks that the seal probably accompanied Bhaskaravarman's letter to Silabhadra inviting Xuanzang.<ref>{{cite book |title=ibid }}</ref>{{full citation needed|date=September 2018}} As however it was found in the company of the two Harsha seals the probability is that both Harsha and Bhaskaravarman, on their march from Rajmahal to Kanauj, visited Nalanda together with the Chinese pilgrim and, to commemorate their visit, left their respective seals at the university.{{sfn|Barua|1933|p=98}}
[[Kashinath Narayan Dikshit|K.N. Dikshit]], in his “Epigraphical notes of the Nalanda finds”, proposes that the seal probably accompanied Bhaskaravarman's letter to [[Śīlabhadra]] inviting Xuanzang. Bhaskaravarman's seal was found in the company of the two Harsha seals. It is likely that both Harsha and Bhaskaravarman traveled from [[Rajmahal]] to [[Kannauj|Kanauj]], specifically to visit the university of [[Nalanda University|Nalanda]]. Besides inviting the Chinese pilgrim, they commemorated their visits by leaving their respective seals at the university.{{sfn|Barua|1933|p=98}}


==Death==
==Death==
It is not known how or when Bhaskaravarman died, but it is estimated that his reigned ended about 650.{{citation needed|date=June 2019}}
The date and circumstances of Bhaskaravarman's death are unknown; his reign likely ended on ~650 CE.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Varman Dynasty of Kamarupa {{!}} PDF {{!}} Indian Religions |url=https://www.scribd.com/document/933862690/The-Varman-Dynasty-of-Kamarupa |access-date=2025-12-16 |website=Scribd |language=en}}</ref>
 
== Post-death events ==
Historian Kanaklal Barua suggests a revolt by the Mlechhas took place after Bhaskaravarman's death, leading Salastambha to seize the throne from Bhaskaravarman's successor Avantivarman.


==Legacy==
==Legacy==
[[Kumar Bhaskar Varma Sanskrit and Ancient Studies University]] of [[Nalbari]], Assam has been named after him.
The [[Assamese Calendar]] or Bhāskarābda is a [[Lunisolar calendar]], followed in the [[India]]n state of [[Assam]] is named after him. The calendar is counted from the date of the  ascension of [[Bhaskaravarman|Kumar Bhashkar Barman]] to the throne of [[Kamarupa]]. It differs 593 years with Gregorian calendar.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.xobdo.org/dic/ভাস্কৰাব্দ | title=Dictionary }}</ref>
 
[[Kumar Bhaskar Varma Sanskrit and Ancient Studies University]] in [[Nalbari]], Assam, and [[Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu]] over [[Brahmaputra river]] is named after him.


==See also==
==See also==
Line 86: Line 96:
==References==
==References==
{{refbegin}}
{{refbegin}}
* {{citation| last = Acharya| first = N. N.| title = ''Asama Aitihashik Bhuchitravali'' (Maps of Ancient Assam)| publisher = Bina Library, Gauhati, Assam | year = 1968}}
* {{cite book |title=Early History Of Kamarupa |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.513799 |last=Barua |first=Kanak Lal |authorlink= Kanak Lal Barua |year=1933 }}
* {{cite book |title=Early History Of Kamarupa |url=https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.513799 |last=Barua |first=Kanak Lal |authorlink= Kanak Lal Barua |year=1933 }}
*{{citation |last=Baruah |first=S L |title=A Comprehensive History of Assam |publisher=Munshiram Manoharlal Publishers Pvt Ltd |place=New Delhi |year=1986}}
* {{cite book |last=Beal |first=Samuel |title=Si-Yu-Ki. Buddhist Records of the Western World, Translated from the Chinese of Hsüan-tsang (A.D. 629) |year=1884 |publisher=Trubner & Co.|location=London |volume=II  |access-date=17 February 2013 |url=https://archive.org/details/siyukibuddhistre02hsuoft}}
* {{cite thesis|type=PhD |last=Dutta |first=Anima |date=2008 |title=Political geography of Pragjyotisa Kamarupa |publisher=Gauhati University|hdl=10603/68309 |url=https://shodhganga.inflibnet.ac.in/handle/10603/68309}}
* {{Citation| last=Gait | given=E A | title=A History of Assam | publisher=Thacker, Spink and Co., Calcutta | year=1906}}
* {{Citation| last=Gait | given=E A | title=A History of Assam | publisher=Thacker, Spink and Co., Calcutta | year=1906}}
* {{Citation| last=Gait | given=Sir Edward | title=A History of Assam | publisher=Lawyer's Book Stall, Guwahati | year=1926}}
* {{Citation| last=Gait | given=Sir Edward | title=A History of Assam | publisher=Lawyer's Book Stall, Guwahati | year=1926}}
* {{cite book |last=Ghosh |first=Suchandra |year=2012 |chapter=Karnasuvarna |chapter-url=http://en.banglapedia.org/index.php?title=Karnasuvarna |editor1-last=Islam |editor1-first=Sirajul |editor1-link=Sirajul Islam |editor2-last=Jamal |editor2-first=Ahmed A. |title=Banglapedia: National Encyclopedia of Bangladesh |edition=Second |publisher=[[Asiatic Society of Bangladesh]]}}
* {{cite book |last=Ghosh |first=Suchandra |year=2012 |chapter=Karnasuvarna |chapter-url=https://en.banglapedia.org/index.php?title=Karnasuvarna |editor1-last=Islam |editor1-first=Sirajul |editor1-link=Sirajul Islam |editor2-last=Jamal |editor2-first=Ahmed A. |title=Banglapedia: National Encyclopedia of Bangladesh |edition=Second |publisher=[[Asiatic Society of Bangladesh]]}}
* {{Citation| last = Sircar| first = D C| contribution = Political History| year = 1990b| title = The Comprehensive History of Assam| editor-last = Barpujari| editor-first = H K| volume = I| pages = 94–171| place = Guwahati| publisher = Publication Board, Assam}}
* Kāmarūpa-Kaliṅga-Mithilā:a politico-cultural alignment in Eastern India : history, art, traditions by Chandra Dhar Tripathi, Indian Institute of Advanced Study
* Kāmarūpa-Kaliṅga-Mithilā:a politico-cultural alignment in Eastern India : history, art, traditions by Chandra Dhar Tripathi, Indian Institute of Advanced Study
* {{cite book| last = Sharma| first = Mukunda Madhava| authorlink = | title = Inscriptions of Ancient Assam| publisher = Gauhati University, Assam| series = | year = 1978| doi = | isbn = }}
* {{cite book| last = Sharma| first = Mukunda Madhava| authorlink = | title = Inscriptions of Ancient Assam| publisher = Gauhati University, Assam| series = | year = 1978| doi = | isbn = }}
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[[Category:Varman dynasty]]
[[Category:Varman dynasty]]
[[Category:Hindu monarchs]]
[[Category:Hindu monarchs]]
[[Category:600 births]]
[[Category:Year of birth missing]]
[[Category:650 deaths]]
[[Category:650 deaths]]
[[Category:7th-century Indian monarchs]]
[[Category:7th-century Indian monarchs]]
[[Category:Kings of Kamarupa]]
[[Category:600 births]]

Latest revision as of 18:15, 7 March 2026


Bhaskaravarman
The 7th-century Kamarupa kingdom under Bhaskaravarman.[1] The kingdom extended to the east up to the hills leading to China,[2] according to the Chinese pilgrim Xuanzang who visited Bhaskarbarman's court during his reign around 643 CE.
King of Kamarupa
Reign600–650 CE
Part of a series on the
History of Assam
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Bhaskaravarman (600–650 CE) was king of Kamarupa and the last ruler of the Varman dynasty. He restored Varman rule after his father, Susthitavarman, was defeated, and allied with Harshavardhana of Thaneswar during a conflict against Gauda and East Malwa.[3][4]

Background[edit | edit source]

Bhaskaravarman succeeded his brother Supratisthitavarman and was the first Kamarupa king to claim descent from Narakasura, Bhagadatta, and Vajradatta.[5][6] He issued the Dubi and Nidhanpur copper plate grants.[7] A clay seal bearing his name was found at Nalanda.[8]

After Susthitavarman's defeat by Mahasenagupta, Supratisthitavarman briefly ruled but died without an heir. Bhaskaravarman then took the throne around 600 CE.[9]

Rivals[edit | edit source]

Mahasenagupta allied with Shashanka and controlled northern and central Bengal after defeating Susthitavarman.[10] After Mahasenagupta's death, Shashanka ruled Bengal. Bhaskaravarman's principal rivals were Shashanka and Prabhakaravardhana, the father of Harshavardhana.[4]

Alliance with Harsha[edit | edit source]

After Shashanka killed Harshavardhana's brother and successor, Rajyavardhana, Bhaskaravarman sent an envoy, Hangsavega, to Thaneswar to form an alliance. The event is recorded by Bana and Xuanzang.[11][12]

Chinese accounts[edit | edit source]

Xuanzang's account[edit | edit source]

Part of a series on the
History of Kamarupa
Ruling dynasties
Varman dynasty (350–650 CE)
Pushyavarman 350–374
Samudravarman 374–398
Balavarman 398–422
Kalyanavarman 422–446
Ganapativarman 446–470
Mahendravarman 470–494
Narayanavarman 494–518
Bhutivarman 518–542
Chandramukhavarman 542–566
Sthitavarman 566–590
Susthitavarman 590–595
Supratisthitavarman 595–600
Bhaskaravarman 600–650
Avantivarman Unknown
Mlechchha dynasty (650–900 CE)
Salasthamba 650–670
Vigrahastambha 670–680
Palaka 680–695
Kumara 695–710
Vajra 710–725
Harshavarman 725–745
Balavarman II 745–760
Salambha 795–815
Harjjaravarman 815–832
Vanamalavarman 832–855
Jayamala 855–860
Balavarman III 860–880
Tyagasimha 890–900
Pala Dynasty (900–1100 CE)
Brahma Pala 900–920
Ratna Pala 920–960
Indra Pala 960–990
Go Pala 990–1015
Harsha Pala 1015–1035
Dharma Pala 1035–1060
Jaya Pala 1075–1100

Chinese pilgrim, Xuanzang visited Bhaskaravarman's court around 643 CE, describing the capital's circumference as thirty Li (~9 miles (14.48 km)). He described Bhaskaravarman as descendant of Narayana and a Brahmana by caste who patronized Buddhism, although he was not a Buddhist himself.[13]

Dao Xuan's account[edit | edit source]

Origin myth mentioned by Xuanzang diverges from the account presented in the book She-Kia-Fang-Che, which describes Bhaskaravarman as a Kshatriya of Chinese ancestry.[5]

Wang Xuance's account[edit | edit source]

After 648 CE, the envoy Wang Xuance visited Harshavardhana's court but was expelled by Yashovarman. Wang returned with an army, captured Yashovarman, and brought him to China. Bhaskaravarman aided Wang with supplies.[10] Chinese records call Bhaskaravarman Ch-Kieu-mo (Sri-Kumara) and Kamarupa Kia-mu-lu. He gave Wang a map and requested an image of Laozi.[14]

Kamarupa of Bhaskaravarman[edit | edit source]

According to the travel account of Xuanzang, Kamarupa was entered after crossing the Karatoya River. He described the eastern boundary of the kingdom as a line of hills near the Chinese frontier and estimated its circumference at nearly 1,700 miles (approximately 2,736 kilometres).[15]

Xuanzang recorded descriptions of the population using descriptive terms typical of seventh-century travel accounts. He noted that the inhabitants were of short stature and described them as having a yellow complexion, language that reflects contemporary ethnographic conventions rather than modern classifications. He observed that their speech differed little from that of Central India and characterized them as both violent in disposition and diligent in learning.

In religious matters, Xuanzang wrote that Bhaskaravarman followed Hindu religious traditions and was not Buddhist. He reported that the population worshipped Hindu deities and that Buddhism was not widely practiced, noting the presence of hundreds of temples and multiple religious systems with many adherents. He stated that Buddhists were present in the kingdom but practiced their devotion discreetly.

Xuanzang also recorded information conveyed to him by local inhabitants, who said that hills extended eastward as far as the borders of China. The people living in these hill regions were described as resembling those referred to as the “Man of the Lao,” reflecting second-hand reports and the classificatory language of the period.[15]

Description[edit | edit source]

Xuanzang notes that Kamarupa was low and moist and that the crops were regular. Coconuts and jackfruits grew abundantly and were appreciated by the people. The described location is around present-day Guwahati.[15]

According to the account given in the Si-yu-ki, the circumference of Kamarupa was about 1,700 miles (2,735.88 km). As Edward Albert Gait has pointed out, this circumference must have included the whole of the Assam valley, Surma valley, parts of North Bengal, and parts of Mymensingh.[16]

Religion[edit | edit source]

Bhaskaravarman was primarily a worshiper of Shiva but showed respect towards Buddhist monks and scholars, reflecting an inclination towards Buddhism.[17] The general populace worshipped various Devas in temples, while Buddhist followers often practiced their devotion in secret.[18]

Culture[edit | edit source]

During his reign, the Nidhanpur copper plate grant documents unique local literary forms, while Chinese accounts describe diplomatic exchanges with Harshavardhana's court.[19] The Karnasuvarna copper plate grant also features distinct regional literary styles not found in later inscriptions.[20]

Art and industry[edit | edit source]

His gifts to Harshavardhana included land products such as a royal umbrella studded with gems, puthis on sachi-bark, cane mats, agar essence, musk, molasses, utensils, paintings, and silk fabrics, as recorded in contemporary accounts.[19][21]

Nidhanpur inscription[edit | edit source]

Main article: Nidhanpur copperplate inscription
Nidhanpur inscription of Bhaskaravarman

The Nidhanpur copper plate inscription describes him using traditional royal epithets, stating he “dispelled the darkness of the Kali age” and “upheld Arya religion with his revenues”—typical ceremonial language found in contemporary royal inscriptions. He is metaphorically adorned with fame from defeated kings’ praises and compared to legendary figures for charity and wisdom.[tone] The inscription attributes to him qualities typical of royal panegyrics, including learning and military strength.[22]

Nalanda seal[edit | edit source]

The Nalanda seal of Bhaskaravarman (dated 643 CE)

Bhaskaravarman's seal, dated 643 CE, was discovered at Nalanda with Harshvardhana seals during the 1917–18 excavations. The inscription lists royal names and may have accompanied an invitation to Xuanzang.[23] The presence of both kings’ seals suggests they visited Nalanda

Sri Ganapati Varma Sri Yajnavatyam Sri Mahendra Varma.
Sri Suvratayam Sri Narayanavarma Sri Devavatyam Sri Mahabhuta Varman.
Sri Vijnana Vatyam Sri Chandramukha Varman Sri Bhogavatyam.
Sri Sthitavarma tena Sri Nayana Sobhayam (Sri Susthitavarman)
(Sri Syama Lakshmyam) Sri Supratisthita Varman.
Sri Bhaskara Varmeti.

K.N. Dikshit, in his “Epigraphical notes of the Nalanda finds”, proposes that the seal probably accompanied Bhaskaravarman's letter to Śīlabhadra inviting Xuanzang. Bhaskaravarman's seal was found in the company of the two Harsha seals. It is likely that both Harsha and Bhaskaravarman traveled from Rajmahal to Kanauj, specifically to visit the university of Nalanda. Besides inviting the Chinese pilgrim, they commemorated their visits by leaving their respective seals at the university.[24]

Death[edit | edit source]

The date and circumstances of Bhaskaravarman's death are unknown; his reign likely ended on ~650 CE.[25]

Post-death events[edit | edit source]

Historian Kanaklal Barua suggests a revolt by the Mlechhas took place after Bhaskaravarman's death, leading Salastambha to seize the throne from Bhaskaravarman's successor Avantivarman.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

The Assamese Calendar or Bhāskarābda is a Lunisolar calendar, followed in the Indian state of Assam is named after him. The calendar is counted from the date of the ascension of Kumar Bhashkar Barman to the throne of Kamarupa. It differs 593 years with Gregorian calendar.[26]

Kumar Bhaskar Varma Sanskrit and Ancient Studies University in Nalbari, Assam, and Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu over Brahmaputra river is named after him.

See also[edit | edit source]

Notes[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ (Dutta 2008:282), reproduced from (Acharya 1968).
  2. ↑ "He travelled from Pun-na-fa-tan-na (Pundravardhana) on the east more than 900 li or 150 miles; crossed a large river and reached Kia-no-leu-po (Kamarupa). The T'ang Shu refers to this large river as Ka-lo-tu, which undoubtedly meant the Karatoya. The pilgrim further stated that to the east of the country was a series of hills which reached as far as the confines of China." (Baruah 1986:75)
  3. ↑ Sen, Sailendra Nath (2013). A Textbook of Medieval Indian History. Primus Books. p. 39. ISBN 978-9380607344.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 Baruah 1986.
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 Sharma, Mukunda Madhava (1978). Inscriptions of Ancient Assam. Gauhati University. p. xiv.
  6. ↑ "Bhaskaravarman, Bhāskaravarman: 3 definitions". Wisdom Library. 21 January 2021. Retrieved 26 July 2025.
  7. ↑ Sharma, Mukunda Madhava (1978). Inscriptions of Ancient Assam. Gauhati University.
  8. ↑ Dikshit, K.N. (1922). "Epigraphical Notes of the Nalanda Finds". Epigraphia Indica. 12: 78–80.
  9. ↑ Gait 1906, pp. 53–55.
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 Barua 1933.
  11. ↑ Sircar, D.C. (1990). Barpujari, H.K. (ed.). The Comprehensive History of Assam : Political History. Vol. 1. Publication Board Assam. pp. 94–171.
  12. ↑ Beal, Samuel (1884). Si-Yu-Ki.
  13. ↑ Beal, Samuel (1884). Si-Yu-Ki. p. 196.
  14. ↑ Ghosh, Suchandra (2012). "Karnasuvarna". Banglapedia. Asiatic Society of Bangladesh. Retrieved 26 July 2025.
  15. ↑ 15.0 15.1 15.2 Beal, Samuel (1884). Si-Yu-Ki: Buddhist Records of the Western World. Vol. II. Trubner & Co. p. 196.
  16. ↑ Gait 1906, pp. 23–24.
  17. ↑ https://archive.org/details/siyukibuddhistre02bealuoft/page/196/mode/2up
  18. ↑ https://books.google.com/books?id=ekf7v9yJ6k4C&pg=PA45
  19. ↑ 19.0 19.1 "Wakhal Nachom". 2006.
  20. ↑ [1][dead link]
  21. ↑ https://books.google.com/books?id=L7iV6DwAuQAC&pg=PA67
  22. ↑ Sharma, Mukunda Madhava (1978). Inscriptions of Ancient Assam. Gauhati University.
  23. ↑ Dikshit, K.N. (1922). "Epigraphical Notes of the Nalanda Finds." Epigraphia Indica, Vol. XII.
  24. ↑ Barua 1933, p. 98.
  25. ↑ "The Varman Dynasty of Kamarupa | PDF | Indian Religions". Scribd. Retrieved 16 December 2025.
  26. ↑ "Dictionary".

References[edit | edit source]

  • Acharya, N. N. (1968), Asama Aitihashik Bhuchitravali (Maps of Ancient Assam), Bina Library, Gauhati, Assam
  • Barua, Kanak Lal (1933). Early History Of Kamarupa.
  • Baruah, S L (1986), A Comprehensive History of Assam, New Delhi: Munshiram Manoharlal Publishers Pvt Ltd
  • Beal, Samuel (1884). Si-Yu-Ki. Buddhist Records of the Western World, Translated from the Chinese of Hsüan-tsang (A.D. 629). Vol. II. London: Trubner & Co. Retrieved 17 February 2013.
  • Dutta, Anima (2008). Political geography of Pragjyotisa Kamarupa (PhD). Gauhati University. hdl:10603/68309.
  • Gait, E A (1906), A History of Assam, Thacker, Spink and Co., Calcutta
  • Gait, Sir Edward (1926), A History of Assam, Lawyer's Book Stall, Guwahati
  • Ghosh, Suchandra (2012). "Karnasuvarna". In Islam, Sirajul; Jamal, Ahmed A. (eds.). Banglapedia: National Encyclopedia of Bangladesh (Second ed.). Asiatic Society of Bangladesh.
  • Sircar, D C (1990b), "Political History", in Barpujari, H K (ed.), The Comprehensive History of Assam, vol. I, Guwahati: Publication Board, Assam, pp. 94–171
  • Kāmarūpa-Kaliṅga-Mithilā:a politico-cultural alignment in Eastern India : history, art, traditions by Chandra Dhar Tripathi, Indian Institute of Advanced Study
  • Sharma, Mukunda Madhava (1978). Inscriptions of Ancient Assam. Gauhati University, Assam.
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