KUSHANAS

Introduction 

The Kushanas originally belonged to west China and were also known by the name Yueh-chis. After defeating Shakas and Pahlavas, Kushanas created a big empire in Pakistan. The first prominent ruler of the Kushanas was Kujula Kadphises. He was succeeded by his son Wama Kadphises. 

But the most important Kushana ruler was Kanishka who succeeded Wema in 78 AD and started a new era called Sakabda. It was under him that Kushana empire reached its maximum territorial limits. His empire extended from central Asia to north India and included Varanasi, Kausambhi and Sravasti in UP. The Kushanas ruled from their capital Purushapura (modern day Peshawar).

Political Significance 

The political significance of Kanishka’s rule lies in the fact that he integrated central Asia with north India as part of a single empire. It resulted in the intermingling of different cultures and increase in inter regional trading activities.

One prominent feature of Kushana polity was the title of Deviputra – son of God, used by the kings. It indicates the claim to divinity by the Kushana kings.

Kanishka and Buddhism 

Kanishka is famous in history as a great patron of Buddhism. He convened the fourth Buddhist council at Kundalavana (present day Srinagar) in which a large number of Buddhist scholars participated. It was a very special council, as in this council Buddhism split into two sects – Hinayana and Mahayana.

Kanishka also patronised the Gandhara and Mathura school of sculptural arts. He built a giant stupa to house the Buddhist relics in his capital Purushapura.

Contribution of the Kushanas 

The Kushanas occupy a special place in the ancient history because of their contribution to various aspects of life. Their vast empire helped in the growth of internal and external trade. It resulted in the rise of new urban centers. The rich state of economy under the Kushanas is also evidenced by the large number of gold and copper coins that they struck.

Even in  literature and medicine, India made progress. Charaka, known as the Father of Ayurveda, wrote a book on medicine called Charakasamhita, whereas Ashvaghosha, a Buddhist scholar, wrote Buddhacharita, a full length biography of the Buddha. Both these scholars were believed to be the contemporaries of King Kanishka. 

The Kushanas patronized the Gandhara and the Mathura school of sculptural arts which are known for producing the earliest images of Buddha and Buddhisattavas.