The Arya‑Manjusri Mula‑Kalpa on Candragupta I
Summary
This article analyses a passage from the Buddhist chronicle ‘Arya‑Manjushri Mula‑Kalpa’ that describes a Gauda king named Samudra and his predecessor. The author argues that the predecessor is Chandragupta I, father of Samudragupta. According to the passage, Chandragupta was installed as king of Magadha by a southern ruler, extended his kingdom to Saketa and was later defeated and killed by enemies. The article notes that Chandragupta initially bore the title ‘maharaja’ but later issued coins as ‘Maharajadhiraja’, indicating independence from his southern overlord. It compares this account with the Allahabad pillar inscription, which suggests that Samudragupta was appointed crown prince while his father was still alive and perhaps wounded during an invasion. The author proposes that the AMMK passage inspired later forged Purana verses and that it offers valuable clues about early Gupta history.
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Conclusion
The article concludes that the AMMK passage likely refers to Chandragupta I and provides new details about his reign. It suggests he was installed by a southern ruler, expanded the Gupta kingdom to Saketa and was killed in battle. Coinage and titles show his transition from vassal to sovereign. Although evidence is sparse, the author argues that this Buddhist source can enrich our understanding of early Gupta history and should be used with caution.