Guptas
- By the end of the 3rd century, the powerful empires established by the Kushanas in the north and Satavahanas in the south had lost their greatness and strength.
- After the decline of Kushanas and Satavahanas, Chandragupta carved out a kingdom and established his dynastic
Literary sources
- Narada, Vishnu, Brihaspati and Katyayana smritis.
- Kamandaka’s Nitisara, a work on polity addressed to the king (400 CE).
- Devichandraguptam and Mudrakhasam by Vishkadutta and Bana’s Harshacharita provide details about the rise of the Guptas.
- Buddhist and Jaina texts.
- Works of Kalidasa.
- Vishnu, Matsya, Vayu and Bhagavata Puranas and Niti Sastras of Narada.
- Accounts of Chinese Buddhist monk Fahien who visited India during the reign of Chandragupta II.
Epigraphical Sources
- Mehrauli Iron Pillar inscription – achievements of Chandragupta I.
- Allahabad Pillar inscription – Describing Samudragupta’s personality and achievements in 33 lines composed by Harisena
- Engraved in Sanskrit and in Nagari
- Udayagiri Cave Inscription, Mathura Stone Inscription & Sanchi Stone Inscription of Chandragupta II.
- Bhitari Pillar Inscription of skanda Gupta
- The Garhwa Stone Inscription.
- Madhubhan Copper Plate Inscription.
- Sonipat Copper Plate.
- Nalanda Inscription on clay seal.
Numismatic Sources
- Gold, silver and copper coins issued by Gupta rulers.