Some Observations on Pusyamitra and his Empire
By Ramesh Chandra Majumdar
Summary
The text examines the southern and northern boundaries of Pushyamitra's empire, focusing on the Narmada and Sindhu rivers. It notes that the Andhras declared independence in the Deccan, with Malavikagnimitra suggesting the Narmada as the southern limit of the Sungas. However, most manuscripts refer to the Mandakin river, though a Telugu manuscript from Bangalore supports "Narmada-kule." The author argues that the Narmada is the likely boundary, citing geographical and linguistic evidence. Regarding the northern extent, Malavikagnimitra mentions Pushyamitra's sacrificial horse being captured by Yavanas near the Sindhu (Indus), implying conflict. While Cunningham identifies the Sindhu as the Narwar river (a tributary of the Yamuna), the author critiques this, noting that Pushyamitra likely ruled from Pataliputra, not Vidisa, and that the Indus was historically within the Mauryan Empire's reach. The argument hinges on the timing of Greek-Indian conflicts and the plausibility of news from the Indus reaching Vidisa before Agnimitra's awareness. The author concludes that Kalidasa likely intended the Indus as the Sindhu, given the dramatic context and historical evidence of Greek presence in the region.
Conclusion
This analysis of Pusyamitra's empire clarifies key geographical and political boundaries, challenging earlier assumptions about the extent of Sunga control. The debate over the Narmada as the southern limit highlights the fluidity of ancient river designations and manuscript discrepancies, while the Sindhu's identification as the Indus versus a local Sindh river underscores the complexities of interpreting ancient geography. The evidence suggests Pusyamitra's influence likely extended beyond Vidisa, potentially reaching the Indus, given the historical context of Greek incursions and the symbolic significance of the sacrificial horse episode. The study emphasizes the need for cautious interpretation of literary sources, acknowledging regional political dynamics and the evolving nature of river systems, which collectively reshape our understanding of early Indian imperialism and its territorial claims.