Published Paper Details:

Abstract The Varman Dynasty (c.350-650 CE) was the first historically documented dynasty of the ancient Kamarupa kingdom in present-day Assam. Founded by Pushyavarman, a contemporary of the Gupta emperor Samudragupta, the dynasty marked the transition of the region from mythological accounts to verified historical records. Initially subordinates to the Gupta Empire, the Varmans asserted their independence during the reign of Mahendravarman (c. 470-494 CE), who performed two Ashvamedha (horse) sacrifices to signify his sovereignty. The dynasty reached its political and cultural zenith under its last and most illustrious ruler, Kumar Bhaskaravarman (c. 600-650 CE), who formed a strategic alliance with King Harshavardhana of Kanauj to defeat Shashanka of Gauda. The Varman dynasty ruled from Pragjyotishpura, located near modern-day Guwahati. The dynasty promoted Sanskrit literature and Brahmanical traditions while integrating local tribal elements. It eventually ended around 650 CE without a clear heir, leading to the rise of the Mlechchha dynasty. The Chinese traveller Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang) visited his court in 643 CE, leaving detailed descriptions of the region's learning, administration, as well as religious pluralism. In this paper it has been tried to explore relevance of the political and cultural development by the Varman Dynasty.