Ramabhadra and Bhoja: the Imperial Pratiharas
Summary
The article examines the reigns of Ramabhadra and Bhoja I, the immediate successors of Naga-bhatta II, within the Imperial Pratihara dynasty, arguing against the traditional narrative of imperial decline during their rule. The author contends that Ramabhadra (c. 833–836 A.D.) faced internal and external challenges but retained control over territories like Bundelkhand and Gurjaratra. The text refutes the notion of lost territories based on the Barah copper-plate, asserting that administrative delays in restoring land grants did not signify political defeat. Similarly, the Daulatpur grant is interpreted as a routine administrative matter, not evidence of declining authority. The author challenges the view of Devapala of Bengal as a conqueror of these regions, suggesting his claims were exaggerated. The article positions Bhoja I (Mihira-Bhoja), who ruled after Devapala, as the greatest Pratihara ruler. Rather than focusing on restoring lost territories, the author argues that Bhoja expanded the empire. Evidence includes the Kahla plates, which record Pratihara generals receiving land in Gorakhpur, and the absence of Pala inscriptions in Bihar during Narayanapala's reign, suggesting Pratihara influence extended into Bengal. The article also discusses Bhoja's military campaigns against the Rashtrakutas, noting a successful raid into Gujarat and a decisive victory near the Reva (Narmada) that led to the extinction of the Gujarat Rashtrakuta line. Additionally, it cites the Pehoa inscription and the accounts of the Arab traveler Sulaiman to highlight Bhoja's powerful cavalry and extensive dominion. The author concludes by emphasizing Bhoja's well-ordered administration, religious tolerance, and divine self-perception, as reflected in his title Adivaraha and inscriptions. The article critiques the interpretations of historians like Dr. R.C. Majumdar, Dr. R.S. Tripathi, and Dr. A.S. Altekar, offering a revised perspective on Pratihara history.
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Conclusion
This study re-evaluates the reigns of Ramabhadra and Bhoja I, challenging the traditional narrative of Pratihara decline during their rule. It argues that Ramabhadra likely retained control over Bundelkhand and Gurjaratra, as disruptions in land grants stemmed from administrative errors rather than political disintegration. The research further posits that Bhoja I began his reign without needing to reconquer these territories, instead focusing on confronting Devapala of Bengal and the Rashtrakutas. By analyzing epigraphic evidence, the text demonstrates that Bhoja successfully expanded the empire eastwards into Bihar and the Gorakhpur region, while also securing the northern frontiers against Arab incursions. Ultimately, the findings elevate Bhoja to the status of the greatest Pratihara ruler, whose vast, well-administered empire rivaled the Imperial Guptas and successfully defended Indian sovereignty.