Origin of the Pala Empire
Gopala established the Pala Empire in the 8th century CE in the region in the wake of widespread lawlessness caused by the fall of Shashankas, or the Gauda Kingdom (contemporary of famous Indian classical ruler Harshavardhana), which existed in the 4th century CE in the Bengal region. Due to the lack of an authoritarian figure after the fall of the Gauda kingdom, Gopala ascended the throne in 750 CE. For four centuries, the Palas ruled over the regions comprising modern-day Bengal, Bihar, Orissa, and Assam.
Pala Empire
Pala Empire: The Pala Empire, founded in 750 CE by Gopala, lasted roughly from the 8th to the 12th centuries. It was one of the most powerful Buddhist rulers of the subcontinent and dominated the regions of modern-day Bengal and Bihar for nearly 4 centuries. They are well-known contemporaries of the dynasties of the Rashtrakutas and Pratiharas, who were dominant in the western region of the Indian subcontinent. The word ‘Pala’ means protector in Prakrit.
The rulers were great patrons of art, which included painting, sculpture, and education. They are one of the most formidable imperial rulers of the East, and their rule is considered one of the “golden periods” of Bengali history as they contributed significantly to the culture and religion of the region. Read below to find out more about the Pala Empire: Origin, Rulers, History, and Administration of Pala Dinesty.
Table of Content
- Origin of the Pala Empire
- Important Rulers of the Pala Empire
- Pala Empire Administration
- Historical Significance of the Pala Empire
- Art and Architecture
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