Who was the Chinese tourist who was very close to Harshavardhana?

The Chinese Buddhist monk and traveler Hiuen Tsang, also known as Xuan Zang, was the prominent figure who shared a close relationship with Emperor Harshavardhana.

Xuan Zang: Harshavardhana's Esteemed Contemporary

Xuan Zang was an eminent Chinese Buddhist monk who embarked on a perilous overland journey from China to India during the 7th century, specifically during the reign of the powerful Indian king, Harshavardhana. His primary objective was to collect Buddhist scriptures, artifacts, and to learn directly from the source of Buddhism.

His Significance and Connection to Harshavardhana

Xuan Zang's travels and his detailed accounts provide invaluable insights into the social, political, and religious conditions of India during the 7th century. His connection to Harshavardhana was particularly significant:

• Royal Patronage: He was extended great hospitality and immense respect at Harshavardhana's court. The emperor himself was deeply impressed by Xuan Zang's profound knowledge and piety, often engaging in long discussions with him.
• Detailed Accounts: Xuan Zang meticulously documented his experiences and observations in his famous work, Journey to the West (also known as Records of the Western Regions or Datang Xiyu Ji). This work includes extensive descriptions of Harshavardhana's administration, his grand religious assemblies (such as the one at Prayag), and the general state of his vast empire.
• Cultural Exchange: Their interaction fostered a significant cultural and intellectual exchange between India and China, with Xuan Zang carrying back a vast collection of Buddhist texts to China, which he then translated, greatly enriching Chinese Buddhism.

The bond between Harshavardhana and Xuan Zang highlights a period of flourishing intellectual exchange and mutual respect between India and China, largely facilitated by their personal association.

Key Facts About Xuan Zang