The Last Maukhari Prince
By Basudeva Upadhyaya
Summary
This article explores the fate of the Maukhari dynasty after the fall of its last ruler, Grahavarman of Kannauj. While historians generally consider him the final Maukhari king, a Nepalese inscription mentions a Maukhari prince named Bhogavarman who served as a high official (Dutaka) under King Śivadeva I of Nepal. The author argues that Bhogavarman was likely a younger brother or close relative of Grahavarman who survived his kingdom’s collapse and sought refuge in Nepal. There he attained prominence due to his noble lineage and character. The article traces Maukhari alliances with the Later Guptas and situates Bhogavarman’s career within broader power struggles in 7th‑century northern India.
Conclusion
The identification of Bhogavarman in Nepalese inscriptions suggests that the Maukhari line persisted briefly after the dynasty lost Kannauj. Serving as a minister in Nepal, he represents the last known scion of a once powerful house and exemplifies how displaced princes could integrate into neighbouring courts.