Brihadratha Maurya
India·Mauryan Empire·Male·2nd century BC
Brihadratha Maurya was the ninth and final emperor of the Mauryan Empire, ruling from 187 to 185 BCE. His reign was marked by a significant decline in the empire's territories and ended with his assassination by his own general, Pushyamitra Shunga, who subsequently founded the Shunga Empire. Brihadratha's reign also coincided with a Greco-Bactrian invasion of northwestern India.
Key Facts
- ›Last emperor of the Mauryan Empire.
- ›Ruled from 187 to 185 BCE.
- ›Overthrown and assassinated by his general, Pushyamitra Shunga.
- ›Succeeded his father, Shatadhanvan.
- ›His reign saw a considerable shrinkage of Mauryan territories.
- ›May have married the daughter of Greco-Bactrian King Demetrius I.
Important Relationships
- Pushyamitra Shunga
- Demetrius I
- Shatadhanvan
Pataliputra
Last Ruler
About Brihadratha Maurya
Brihadratha Maurya was the ninth and final emperor of the Mauryan Empire, ruling in ancient India from 187 to 185 BCE. His brief reign marked the end of one of the subcontinent's most significant dynasties.
Reign and Overthrow
According to the Puranas, Brihadratha succeeded his father, Shatadhanvan, to the throne. Historical accounts indicate that his reign was marked by a considerable reduction in the territories controlled by the Mauryan Empire, which had been centered on the capital of Pataliputra. The end of his rule came swiftly and violently when his own general, Pushyamitra Shunga, usurped power. Pushyamitra is described as having killed Brihadratha in front of the entire Mauryan army, an act that led to the establishment of the Shunga Empire.
External Interactions
During the period preceding his assassination, specifically between 190 and 186 BCE, the northwestern regions of India faced an invasion by Demetrius I, the Greco-Bactrian king. While the Mauryan Empire's influence had waned, there is a suggestion in historical chronicles that Brihadratha Maurya may have married Demetrius' daughter, Berenice (known as Suvarnnaksi in Pali). This potential alliance highlights the complex geopolitical landscape of the era, even as the Mauryan power itself was collapsing.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Brihadratha Maurya?
Brihadratha Maurya was the ninth and last emperor of the Mauryan Empire. He ruled for a brief period before being overthrown.
When did Brihadratha Maurya rule?
Brihadratha Maurya ruled from 187 to 185 BCE. According to the Puranas, he ruled for seven years.
How did Brihadratha Maurya's reign end?
Brihadratha Maurya's reign ended with his assassination by his general, Pushyamitra Shunga. Pushyamitra usurped the throne and established the Shunga Empire.
What significant events occurred during Brihadratha Maurya's reign?
During Brihadratha Maurya's reign, the Mauryan territories had shrunk considerably. Additionally, the Greco-Bactrian king Demetrius I invaded and occupied parts of northwestern India.
What was the relationship between Brihadratha Maurya and Pushyamitra Shunga?
Pushyamitra Shunga was Brihadratha Maurya's general. Pushyamitra betrayed and assassinated Brihadratha, seizing power and establishing the Shunga Empire.
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