Karkoṭa Empire

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Karkota Empire
625 CE–885 CE
Capital Parihaspore, earlier Srinagar
Religion Hinduism
Buddhism
Government Monarchy
Samraat (Emperor) Durlabhvardhana
Durlabahaka
 •  724 CE–760 CE Lalitaditya
Historical era Medieval
 •  Established 625 CE
 •  Disestablished 885 CE
Today part of  Afghanistan
 India
 Pakistan

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Karkota Empire (625 CE - 885 CE) was a major power from the Indian subcontinent; which originated in the region of Kashmir.[1] It was founded by Durlabhvardhana during the lifetime of Harshavardhan. The dynasty marked the rise of Kashmir as a power in Central Asia and Northern India.[2] Avanti Varman ascended the throne of Kashmir on 855 A.D., establishing the Utpala dynasty and ending the rule of Karkota dynasty.[3]

According to Kalhana's Rajatarangini, Lalitaditya Muktapida was able to extend the power of Kashmir beyond the normal mountain limits and in about 740 AD inflicted a defeat upon Yashovarman, the King of Kannauj. Lalitaditya was able to vanquish the Turks, Tibetans, Bhutias, Kambojas and others. According to historians, Kalhana highly exaggerated the conquests of Lalitaditya.[4][5]

The Karkota emperors were primarily Hindu. They built spectacular Hindu temples in their capital Parihaspur.[6][7] They however also allowed Buddhism to flourish under them. Stupa, Chaitya and Vihara can be found in the ruins of their capital. Martand Sun Temple in the Anantnag district were built by Lalitaditya. It is the oldest known Sun temple in India and was also one of the biggest temple complexes at the time.[8]

Extent of the Karkota Empire during the reign of Lalitaditya Muktapida (8th century), according to Kalhana's Rajatarangini. Note that Kalhana highly exaggerated the conquests of Lalitaditya.[4][5] 
Martand Sun Temple Central shrine, dedicated to the Sun-God Surya. Built by Lalitaditya Muktapida, it is one of the largest temple complex on the Indian Subcontinent. 
Restored impression of temple by J. Duguid, 1870-73 


Notes

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  2. Kalhana (1147-1149); Rajatarangini.
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  4. 4.0 4.1 Chadurah & 1991 45.
  5. 5.0 5.1 Hasan 1959, pp. 54.
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References

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