The Royal Study: Prince Harsha's Plans
In the grand royal study, Prince Harsha sat surrounded by the wisdom and experience of his father, Emperor Harishchandra, and the Senapati Mahadev. A rudimentary but detailed map lay spread across the table before them, charting the vast Sooryavanshi Empire. The map was a testament to the empire's grandeur, displaying the borders of its regions and the strategic strongholds crucial to its survival.
The Stronghold of Rajputana
At the heart of the empire lay Rajputana, a land of fierce loyalty and rich heritage. Its direct control was maintained by the royal family, with the Mandore Fort (Durg) serving as the seat of power. In the parallel world of modern times, this area corresponds to Rajasthan. Emperor Harishchandra's influence was supreme here, as the royal house wielded absolute authority over the army and governance. Taxes collected from this region were funneled directly into the royal treasury, ensuring a robust economic foundation.
Rajputana was divided into several territories, each governed by noble houses appointed by the emperor. These nobles, though powerful within their domains, operated under stringent conditions. They were prohibited from recruiting independent armies and could only maintain personal guards and a fixed number of soldiers with the explicit permission of the royal family. This ensured that the balance of power remained firmly in the emperor's hands.
Territories and Their Governance
Mandore (Modern Jodhpur, Marwar): The royal family's direct fiefdom. All taxes generated here flowed into the imperial treasury.
Mand : The Bhati family served as the noble house overseeing the Mand area (modern Jaisalmer), under royal supervision.
Jungladesh (Modern Bikaner): Governed by the Jat clans, who elected their chieftain with the king's approval. This area was strategically vital, as it frequently faced Arab invasions.
Yodhey Pradesh (Modern Shri Ganganagar and parts of Bikaner): Under the stewardship of the Chauhan family, ruling from Ramnagar. Like Jungladesh, it was a frontline region against Arab incursions, necessitating the permanent presence of the royal army.
Jainagara (Modern Jaipur): Governed by the Rao family.
Hadoti (Modern Kota and Bundi): Managed by the Hada family.
Mewar (Modern Udaipur and surrounding areas): Under the rule of the Rana family.
Matsya (Modern Alwar): Controlled by the Naruka family.
Together, these territories formed the stronghold of Rajputana, where the emperor's authority was unchallenged. Noble houses collected taxes from their domains but retained only 30%, remitting the remaining 70% to the royal treasury.
Mathura Kingdom: A Loyal Vassal
To the north of Rajputana lay the Mathura Kingdom, ruled by Emperor Harishchandra's stepbrother, King Shurasena Suryavanshi. His capital was Mathura, and his territories included Indraprastha (modern Delhi), Aryavarta (Haryana), and Agravana (Agra). As a vassal, Shurasena governed independently but paid tribute to Mandore, remitting 50% of his tax revenue. The royal court stationed tax officers across Mathura's territories to ensure compliance.
Mathura shared borders with Thanesan to the north and Ahichchhatra to the east, the latter being under the control of the Magadh Empire. Despite this proximity to powerful neighbors, Mathura's allegiance to the Sooryavanshi Empire ensured its stability.
Gwalior: A Battleground of Empires
To the east of Mathura lay Gwalior, ruled by Raja Vikramaditya of the Scindia family. Gwalior's strategic importance stemmed from its position on the frontlines against the Rashtrakuta Empire. For years, the Rashtrakutas and Sooryavanshis had vied for control of Ujjaini (modern Ujjain), a prosperous city currently under Rashtrakuta dominance. Gwalior's allegiance to Emperor Harishchandra fortified the empire's eastern frontier.
Kannauj: The eastern Shield
Kannauj, another crucial vassal, controlled the territories of Kannauj, Hrwa, and Panchala. Ruled by Raja Bhoja of the Varman family, this kingdom was a steadfast ally of the Sooryavanshi Empire. Raja Bhoja's camaraderie with Emperor Harishchandra was legendary; their shared vision and battlefield successes solidified their bond. Kannauj's northern border faced the Magadh Empire, presenting both an opportunity and a challenge.
Mandsaur and Maitraka: Guardians
The southern frontiers of the empire were guarded by Mandsaur and and western sea frontiers were guarded by Maitraka.
Mandsaur (Modern Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara): Ruled by Raja Vishvavarma of the Varma family. This region frequently clashed with the Rashtrakuta Empire. Mandsaur's alliance with Gwalior and Rajputana had proved instrumental in past conflicts.
Maitraka (Modern Bhuj, Kandla, Palanpur, Rajkot, Junagarh): Governed by King Gurhsena of the Sen family, a remnant of the once-glorious Gupta dynasty. Maitraka's position along the western seaboard made it a vital trading hub. Its naval defenses were occasionally tested by Abbasid raids ,(arab) , in this time Muslim Caliphate (arab) is spreading and muslim empire spreading very fast. but the kingdom's allegiance to the Sooryavanshi Empire ensured its safety. Maitraka's trade revenues contributed significantly to the empire's wealth.
The Threat of Rashtrakuta and Magadh
The Rashtrakuta Empire, an ambitious southern power, constantly sought to expand its influence, particularly in Ujjaini. Meanwhile, the Magadh Empire to the east grappled with internal strife as the Pala Dynasty encroached upon its territories. Despite these threats, the Sooryavanshi Empire's strategic alliances and strong governance provided a sturdy defense.
The First Standing Army
While the Sooryavanshi Empire relied on mobilizing peasants and noble retainers during wartime, history hinted at the need for a standing army. The Magadh Empire of old had pioneered this concept, and echoes of its effectiveness persisted. Emperor Harishchandra's court often debated the merits of establishing a professional military force to counter the growing threats from Rashtrakuta and Magadh.
The Road Ahead
As Prince Harsha studied the map and absorbed the insights of his father and generals, he understood the weight of his destiny. The empire's future rested on his ability to navigate the challenges ahead. From the deserts of Rajputana to the bustling ports of Maitraka, every territory had a role to play in the grand tapestry of the Sooryavanshi Empire. His journey would not merely be one of conquest but also of diplomacy, strategy, and the unyielding pursuit of unity.
The prince's resolve hardened as he envisioned the path forward, knowing that his actions would shape the legacy of the Sooryavanshi Empire for generations to come.
A new mission
The grand royal study, bathed in the golden hues of the evening sun, was alive with the rustle of maps and the murmur of deep conversation. Emperor Harishchandra, his hands clasped behind his back, stood by the expansive window, gazing out at the bustling Mandore Palace grounds. Prince Harsha, sat across from him, his brow furrowed in thought as he examined a detailed map of Rajputana.
Seated nearby was Senapati Mahadev, his polished armor gleaming in the soft light. The air was thick with anticipation, the weight of the discussion resonating in the grand chamber.
"Harsha," the Emperor began, his voice steady and measured, "the time has come for you to take your first step into the responsibilities of rulership. Rajputana is vast, and while our noble houses are loyal, there are still those who seek to exploit the cracks in our governance."
Prince Harsha looked up, his gaze unwavering. "You're speaking of the bandits, Father," he stated plainly. "Their raids disrupt trade routes, and their presence undermines the people's faith in the throne."
Harishchandra nodded. "Precisely. Before we can aspire to grander campaigns or alliances, we must ensure our heartland is secure. Eliminating these outlaws is not just about restoring order; it is about earning the trust of the people and fostering unity among the noble houses."
A Strategy Unfolds
Senapati Mahadev leaned forward, pointing to several marked locations on the map. "The bandits have made their strongholds in the hills near Mandore, as well as the dense jungles bordering Jungladesh and Yodhey Pradesh. These regions are treacherous, and the bandits are well-versed in the terrain."
Prince Harsha's eyes narrowed as he studied the map. "To succeed, we need more than brute force. I will meet the nobles of Rajputana personally, not just to secure their support but to understand their strengths and concerns. Each territory has its challenges, and their cooperation will be crucial." First i start from these three places, harsha says.
The Emperor smiled approvingly. "Good. By meeting them, you will also begin to solidify your relationships with the families who form the backbone of our empire. A king must know his allies as well as his enemies."
A Father's Wisdom
The Emperor walked over to his son, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Harsha, remember this: governance is not just about issuing commands. It is about building trust, inspiring loyalty, and understanding the needs of those you rule. The people will look to you not only for protection but for guidance and hope."
Harsha nodded, the weight of his father's words settling into his heart. "I will not fail you, Father. I will begin by visiting Mand, Jungladesh, and Yodhey Pradesh. I will learn from the noble families and ensure their readiness to join the campaign."
Harishchandra's gaze softened, pride evident in his eyes. "I know you will succeed, my son. But do not rush into battle unprepared. Take Bhimrao's counsel. The royal spy network will provide invaluable intelligence."
End of Chapter
to be continued....