The Date of Subandhu
Summary
This short article re‑examines the date of Subandhu, author of the Sanskrit romance Vāsavadattā. Scholars have long debated whether Subandhu lived before or after the prose writer Bāṇa. Reviewing previous arguments and internal evidence, the author contends that Subandhu must have preceded Bāṇa. Stylistic analysis shows that Vāsavadattā employs an earlier stage of ornate prose and lacks references to Bāṇa or later writers, while Bāṇa appears to allude to Subandhu. Political allusions in Subandhu’s prefatory verses suggest a setting during the reign of Kumāragupta or his immediate successors in the early sixth century. The article criticises later chronologies that place Subandhu in the seventh century and emphasises that accurate dating clarifies the evolution of Sanskrit prose literature, positioning Subandhu as a transitional figure between early romances and later ornate compositions.
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Conclusion
The article concludes that Subandhu likely flourished in the first half of the sixth century CE, making him senior to Bāṇa. This chronology is supported by stylistic features, intertextual references and historical allusions within his work. Recognising Subandhu’s early date helps to trace the development of classical Sanskrit prose and shows how Vāsavadattā influenced subsequent authors. The study highlights the value of internal textual evidence for resolving chronological questions in Indian literary history.