The Significance of two historical titles

B.P. Sinha’s article ‘The Significance of Two Historical Titles’ explores the political meanings behind two epithets used by Gupta rulers: Vikramaditya and Kramaditya. While Vikramaditya (“valorous like the sun”) is well known from its association with Chandragupta II, the title Kramaditya has received less attention. The author notes that Skandagupta and later Gupta princes such as Kumāragupta II and Ghatotkacagupta adopted both titles, inscribing them on coins and inscriptions. Sinha analyses the difference between the terms “vikrama” and “krama”. Drawing on Somadeva Suri’s Nitivakyamrta, he explains that “krama” refers to hereditary right or adherence to established custom, whereas “vikrama” denotes courage and prowess. The Bhitari inscription juxtaposes the terms, suggesting that Gupta authors understood them as complementary virtues: a ruler needed both lineage and bravery to legitimise his reign. Sinha argues that the adoption of Kramaditya by Skandagupta and other princes occurred during periods of succession disputes. By highlighting hereditary legitimacy, the title asserted the claimant’s rightful place on the throne. The article examines numismatic evidence, showing that coins of Kumāragupta II and Ghatotkacagupta bear the legend “Ghato Kramaditya” and uses epigraphic references to reconstruct sequences of succession. Sinha concludes that the title Kramaditya signalled continuity of Gupta royal bloodline and was used strategically when the succession was contested. The article thus reveals how royal epithets functioned as political propaganda, helping rulers stabilise their authority and communicate messages about their inheritance and valor.

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