The Salastambha Dynasty ruled Kamarupa (present-day Assam) during an important period in its history. The dynasty was founded by Salastambha, who shifted the capital from Pragjyotishpur (modern-day Guwahati) to the Tezpur region. He named the new capital Hatakeswara or Haruppeswara, after his tutelary deity, Hataka or Hetuka Sulin.
Salastambha was succeeded by a series of rulers, including Vigraha, Palaka Kumara, and Vajradeva, about whom little is known due to a lack of historical records.
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Sri Harshadeva (c. 725–750 AD): A Glorious Reign
The dynasty gained prominence with the rise of Sri Harshadeva, a powerful king whose reign was a golden era in Kamarupa’s history. Harshadeva is mentioned in the Nepalese inscriptions of the Licchavi king Jayadeva II as a ruler of extensive territories, including regions like Gauda, Kalinga, and Kosala. His military campaigns extended Kamarupa’s influence across much of northern India, from Sadiya in the east to Ayodhya in the west, and down to Ganjam in the south.
Harshadeva’s rule was short-lived, as he was eventually overthrown by Yasovarman. He was succeeded by Balavarman-II and Pralambha (Salamgha), leading to the reign of Harjaravarman.
Harjaravarman (c. 815–835 AD): A Builder of Temples and Public Works
Harjaravarman was a king known for his contributions to art and public welfare. He left two important inscriptions, the Hayunthal Grant and the Tezpur Rock Epigraph. He gave himself grand titles like Maharaja-dhiraja Parameswara.
Harjaravarman built a large temple for his deity, Hataka Sulin, and many grand buildings in Haruppeswara (modern Tezpur). The remains of these temples and the large water tank, Harjarapukhuri, show his efforts in promoting art, architecture, and public development.
Vanamalavarman (c. 835–865 AD): Recovering Lost Glory
The son of Harjaravarman, Vanamalavarman, played a key role in restoring Kamarupa’s influence in Bengal. His kingdom extended to regions like Sylhet, Mymensingh, and parts of Dhaka. A devout follower of Shiva, he abdicated the throne to his son Jayamala and chose a religious path, fasting unto death.
Jayamala (c. 865–885 AD) and Balavarman-III (c. 885–910 AD)
Jayamala, also known as Virbahu, abdicated due to illness, considering worldly life as fleeting. His successor, Balavarman-III, became the last significant ruler of the dynasty.
Tyagsingha (c. 970–990 AD): The Last King of the Salastambha Dynasty
Tyagsingha was the last king of the Salastambha dynasty. When he died without children, his officials made Brahmapala, a governor, the new king.
During his rule, the philosopher Adi Shankaracharya visited Kamarupa and had a debate with the Tantric scholar Abhinava, showing the region’s importance in culture and learning.
The Salastambha Dynasty played a pivotal role in shaping the history and culture of Kamarupa, leaving behind a legacy of military power, architectural achievements, and religious devotion.
Also Read: The Varman Dynasty of Assam: History, Culture, and Legacy
Assam’s history and it’s cultural heritage!