Identification of the princes and territories mentioned in the Allahabad Pillar Inscription of Samudragupta
By D. R. Bhandarkar
Summary
The Allahabad Pillar Inscription of Samudragupta lists princes and territories he conquered or allied with. Scholars like V.A. Smith, Jouveau-Dubreuil, Raychaudhuri, and Dikshit have attempted identifications. Key identifications include: 1) **Mahendra of Kosala**, likely ruling South Kosala with Sripura (Sirpur) as an early capital; 2) **Vyaghraraja of Mahakantara**, possibly linked to the Uccakalpa dynasty and located in Bundelkhand; 3) **Mantaraja of Kvrila**, possibly Kolleru Lake or Sonpur in Central Provinces; 4) **Svamidatta of Kottira**, identified with locations in Coimbatore or Ganjam; 5) **Damana of Erandapalla**, possibly Erandol in Khandesh or near Orissa; 6) **Vispugopa of Kafcl**, linked to Conjeeveram and a Pallava king; 7) **Hastivarman of Vengi**, connected to the Vengi region on the east coast; and 8) **Ugrasena of Pilakka**, possibly in Malabar. Disputes exist over territorial boundaries and some names (e.g., Kvrila, Kottira). The inscription also notes Samudragupta’s titles (Parakrama, Vikrama) and his political dominance.
Conclusion
This study synthesizes scholarly efforts to decode the Allahabad Pillar Inscription, advancing the identification of princes and territories under Samudragupta’s influence. By analyzing epigraphic evidence and contextualizing references to regions like Dakshinapatha, the research clarifies ambiguities in earlier interpretations, such as distinguishing Mahakantara from Sarvatuvi and proposing plausible locations for Kvrila and Kairalaka. The findings underscore Samudragupta’s military and political reach, reinforcing his role as a unifier of North India. The paper not only consolidates historical scholarship but also highlights unresolved questions, inviting further investigation—particularly by emerging scholars—to refine regional chronologies and dynastic connections. Its methodical approach and critical engagement with prior theories offer a foundation for deeper exploration of the Gupta Empire’s territorial dynamics and historical legacy.