Pulakeshin II

The Chalukya emperor who proved India could resist the mightiest empires. His victory over Harsha at the Narmada established the template of the warrior-patron king and earned him recognition from Persia itself.

Lessons in this chapter

• Rise of the Chalukyas — From Vatapi to Empire
• The Battle of Narmada — Stopping Harsha's Advance
• Emperor of the South — Diplomacy with Persia and Beyond
• Caves of Devotion — Art and Architecture of the Chalukyas
• The Vaishnavite King — Faith and Tolerance in the Deccan
• Fall and Resurrection — The Pallava Revenge and Chalukya Revival

Back to Lesser Known Guardians of Dharma