A Note on the “Pusyamitras” of the Bhitari Inscription
Summary
In this miscellany, the author revisits H. Fleet’s reading of the Bhitari Pillar Inscription, which described Skandagupta’s supposed victory over the Puṣyamitras. Drawing on a critique by S.V. Sohoni, the article argues that the contested term should be read differently, referring not to a tribe but to elements of the state. It suggests that the verses describe Skandagupta reorganising his army, treasury, allies and territory rather than defeating a particular tribe. The author highlights palaeographic uncertainties and notes that no other sources mention a Puṣyamitra invasion. The essay concludes that Fleet’s interpretation is untenable and that Gupta decline was more likely due to Hun incursions and internal issues than to a shadowy republican tribe.
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Conclusion
By correcting the reading of the Bhitari Pillar Inscription, the article dispels the myth of a Puṣyamitra invasion of the Gupta empire. It stresses that ambiguous epigraphic terms should be interpreted cautiously and situates the Gupta decline within broader internal and external pressures.