2.4.2. Divine Kings

One means of claiming high status was to identify with a variety of deities. This strategy is best exemplified by the Kushanas (c. first century BCE-first century CE), who ruled over a vast kingdom extending from Central Asia to northwest India. Their history has been reconstructed from inscriptions and textual traditions. The notions of kingship they wished to project are perhaps best evidenced in their coins and sculpture.

The Kushana rulers aimed to legitimize their power by associating themselves with gods. By portraying themselves as divine or semi-divine figures, they strengthened their rule and gained deeper devotion from their subjects. This association was evident in their grand sculptures and coins that featured their images alongside deities.

Think of a popular leader today who aligns themselves with certain values or symbols to gain support. Just as modern politicians might evoke patriotism or community values to connect with voters, ancient kings used divine connections to solidify their authority.

Colossal statues of Kushana rulers have been found installed in a shrine at Mat near Mathura (Uttar Pradesh). Similar statues have been found in a shrine in Afghanistan as well. Some historians feel this indicates that the Kushanas considered themselves godlike. Many Kushana rulers also adopted the title devaputra, or 'son of god', possibly inspired by Chinese rulers who called themselves sons of heaven.

The majestic statues and titles like 'son of god' clearly demonstrate the Kushanas' attempt to elevate their status beyond that of regular mortals. This reflects their belief in their divinity, which, in turn, aimed to compel greater loyalty and reverence from their subjects. By using such titles, they also connected with existing cultural beliefs about the divine right of kings.

Imagine a modern leader who titles themselves based on historical figures, or adopts regal symbolism to reflect strength and authority. Just as the kushanas might take on divine titles to instill confidence and respect, leaders use titles and imagery to evoke a sense of trust in their governance.

By the fourth century, there is evidence of larger states, including the Gupta Empire. Many of these states depended on samantas, men who maintained themselves through local resources, including control over land. They offered homage and provided military support to rulers. Powerful samantas could become kings; conversely, weak rulers might find themselves reduced to positions of subordination.

As empires like the Gupta emerged, the structure of power evolved. Local leaders, or samantas, would often control land and resources, which could lead to them gaining considerable influence. If a ruler was incapable of managing their affairs, they could lose power to these local leaders, showcasing the dynamic nature of political authority during this time.

Consider a company where a project manager is responsible for decision-making. If they perform poorly, team leads (like samantas) may take over essential tasks or even claim authority for the project. This parallels how local leaders could seize control from ineffective kings based on their own governance skills.

Histories of the Gupta rulers have been reconstructed from literature, coins, and inscriptions, including prashastis, composed in praise of kings in particular, and patrons in general, by poets. While historians often attempt to draw factual information from such compositions, those who composed and read them often treasured them as works of poetry rather than as accounts that were literally true.

The Gupta rulers are often celebrated through poetic compositions called prashastis, which provide insights into their reign. However, it's important to note that these texts might not always reflect accurate historical facts but rather glorified narratives. As such, while they are valued for their artistic merit, historians must critically assess their reliability as historical sources.

Consider how modern biographies or memoirs may emphasize certain achievements while downplaying failures. The way poets praised Gupta rulers mirrors this, capturing the grandeur of their reigns even if it doesn’t present a complete or entirely factual picture.

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