Identification of Parvataka and Porus
By H. C. Seth
Summary
The identification of Parvataka and Porus centers on analyzing historical and literary sources. The *Mudraraksasa* drama portrays Parvataka as an ally of Chandragupta in overthrowing the Nanda king of Magadha, a narrative corroborated by Jain traditions recorded by Hemacandra. These sources suggest Parvataka assisted Canakya and Chandragupta in conquering Magadha, promising a share of the Nanda kingdom. The *Mahavamsa* references Prince Pabbata, who aided Canakya but was later murdered by Chandragupta, likely corresponding to Parvataka. The drama also describes Malayaketu, Parvataka’s son, whose allies included kings from Kashmir (Citravarman), Malayanagara (Simhanada), Kashmir (Puskaraksa), Sindh (Sindhusena), and Persia (Meghanada). Canakya’s intrigues led Malayaketu to believe these allies were plotting against him. The territories of Citravarman and Simhanada suggest Parvataka’s influence extended across regions adjacent to modern-day Kashmir and the Beas River valley. Scholarly analysis identifies "Malaya" in the drama not as a place but as a tribe, aligning with the Greek historians’ "Malloi," who occupied the Ravi River valley. This places the Malaya tribe near Porus’ territory, which Greek accounts describe as lying between the Jhelam and Chenab rivers. After Alexander’s campaign, Porus’ domain expanded eastward, encompassing areas near the Bias River. Geographical and historical evidence suggests Porus’ territory bordered Kashmir and Kulita (identified with modern Kuld in the Beas River valley) to
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Conclusion
The identification of Parvataka with Porus emerges as a pivotal revelation, bridging Indian and Greek historical narratives. This analysis demonstrates that Parvataka, a key ally of Chandragupta in the Nanda dynasty's downfall, aligns geographically and politically with Porus, as attested by territorial overlaps and shared alliances. The dramatic accounts of Malayaketu's coalitions, particularly with Kashmir, Kulita, and Malayanagara, provide spatial anchors for Parvataka's influence, reinforcing his historical plausibility. By corroborating Jain, Sanskrit, and Greek sources, this study solidifies Parvataka's role in early Mauryan conquests while highlighting the interconnectedness of ancient Indian and Hellenistic worlds. The findings advance scholarly understanding of cross-cultural encounters and political dynamics in the region, underscoring the enduring legacy of these historical figures in shaping imperial destinies.