The signature of Emperor Harshavardhana reads "स्वहस्तो मम महाराजाधिराज श्री हर्षस्य", which translates to "By my Own Hand, King of Kings, Shri Harsha." This signature provides a unique insight into the imperial authentication practices of ancient India.
Decoding Harsha's Imperial Signature
Harshavardhana's signature is not merely a name but a statement of royal authority and personal endorsement. It appeared on official documents to validate their authenticity, a practice common among ancient rulers.
Key Components of the Signature:
| Component | Original Script | English Translation | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Authentication | स्वहस्तो मम | By my Own Hand | Verifies personal endorsement by the emperor. |
| Title | महाराजाधिराज | King of Kings | Highlights his supreme imperial status. |
| Name | श्री हर्षस्य | Shri Harsha (of Shri Harsha) | Identifies the emperor himself, with honorific. |
This specific formulation ensured that any document bearing this mark was recognized as personally authorized by the reigning monarch, signifying its highest level of legitimacy.
Source of the Signature
This significant historical detail is derived from the Banskhera Copper Plate Inscription of Harsha.
- Discovery: The Banskhera Copper Plate is a crucial archaeological find that sheds light on Harsha's reign, administrative practices, and the legal framework of his empire.
- Dating: The inscription, bearing the signature, was issued in the 22nd year of Harshavardhana's reign. This dating helps historians place the document precisely within the timeline of his rule.
Copper plate inscriptions were often used for grants of land, official decrees, and legal documents, making the inclusion of the emperor's personal signature vital for their enforceability and historical record.
Who Was Harshavardhana?
Harshavardhana, often referred to as Harsha, was a powerful and influential emperor of ancient India who ruled from 606 C.E. to 647 C.E.
- Dynasty: He belonged to the Pushyabhuti Dynasty, which rose to prominence in northern India.
- Reign: His reign is considered a golden age in Indian history, marked by:
- Significant political consolidation across large parts of northern India.
- Flourishing of arts, literature, and Buddhist scholarship.
- Extensive diplomatic relations, including with China (evidenced by the accounts of the Chinese Buddhist pilgrim Xuanzang, who visited India during Harsha's time).
- Legacy: Harsha was also a notable patron of Buddhism and a distinguished playwright, credited with composing Sanskrit dramas like Nagananda, Ratnavali, and Priyadarsika.
His signature on the Banskhera Copper Plate is a tangible link to this pivotal figure in Indian history, offering direct evidence of his personal involvement in the administration of his vast empire.
