“Explore the historic Assembly of Kanauj organized by Emperor Harsha in 643 CE, a grand gathering of religious leaders, scholars, and foreign dignitaries to promote Buddhism, interreligious dialogue, and cultural exchange, marking a milestone in ancient Indian history.”
Assembly at Kanauj
| Historical Event | Harsha’s assembly at Kanauj |
| Organizer | Emperor Harshavardhana |
| Location | Kanauj (present-day Uttar Pradesh, India) |
| Time | 643 BCE |
| Purpose | To promote Buddhism and showcase the grandeur of Harsha’s empire |
| Prominent Figure | Hiuen Tsang (Chinese Buddhist monk and scholar) |
| Duration | Approximately 21 days |
| Highlights | Discussion on Buddhist philosophy, Donation of wealth to monks and poor, Cultural events |
| Outcome | Strengthening of Buddhism in India and demonstration of Harsha’s imperial influence |
Introduction
Most of the facts we have stated about Harshavardhana are known from the wonderful records left by the pilgrim, which, besides, give us a detailed picture of the condition of India such as we do not find anywhere else. Harshavardhana met the Chinese pilgrim in Bengal, and being delighted in his company, held a special assembly at Kanauj in his honor.
Attendee of the assembly
It was attended by twenty tributary kings, four thousand Buddhist monks, and about three thousand Jainas and orthodox Brahmaņas.
Golden image of Buddha
On the west bank of the Ganges, the king built a spacious monastery and a tower 100 ft. high and put a golden image of Buddha of his own height within the latter.
Palace of king
A little to the west of this was built the temporary palace of the king and pavillions for other guests.
Splendid procession
Every morning a small golden image of Buddha, 3 ft. in height, was carried in a splendid procession from the royal palace to the tower. The king himself, dressed as Sakra and escorted by 500 war elephants, held the canopy and scattered pearls, gold, silver flowers, and various other precious substances on the way. A long train of cabaret elephants carried the tributary kings, their escorts, and other guests, and 100 great elephants carried musicians who sounded their drums and raised their music.
The king offered
After the procession was over, the king offered to the image of Gautam Buddha tens, hundreds, and thousands of silken garments, decorated with precious gems. Then, after the feast, the men of learning assembled in the hall to discuss the most abstruse subjects, the Chinese pilgrim being of course accorded the place of honor. In the evening, the guests retired to their dwellings.
The anger of the Brahmins
This solemn program was repeated every day for about a month when the monastery suddenly took fire and was partially destroyed. Harshavardhana was surveying the scene from the top of a stipa when a fanatic, knife in hand, rushed towards him. The attempt failed, and the assassin confessed that he was engaged by the Brahmanas, who were infuriated at the excessive favour shown by the king towards the Buddhists. These men had deliberately set the monastery on fire in order to kill the king in the confusion which would follow. The chief culprits were punished, and the rest were pardoned.
Conclusion
After the ceremony at Kanauj had closed amid these tragic incidents, the Emperor, accompanied by the Chinese pilgrim, proceeded to Prayaga (Allahabad, assembly at Prayaga), where he used to celebrate another solemn festival at the end of every five years, at the confluence of the Ganges and the Jumna. All the vassal kings attended. and the king had already summoned there the followers of different religious sects, the poor, the orphans, and the needy for receiving gifts.
(FAQ) about Harsha’s assembly at Kanauj?
1. Why did Harsha organize the assembly at Kanauj?
Harsha organized the assembly to promote Buddhism, honor Xuanzang, and display his empire’s wealth and cultural vibrancy. It was also a platform for interreligious dialogue.
2. What role did Xuanzang play in the assembly?
Xuanzang was a key participant who shared Buddhist teachings and his experiences of traveling across India. Harsha highly respected Xuanzang and sought to honor him during the event.
3. Were other religions represented in the assembly?
Yes, the assembly included leaders from Hinduism, Jainism, and other faiths, promoting interreligious dialogue and harmony.
4. How was wealth distributed during the assembly?
Harsha is said to have donated immense wealth, including gold, silver, and clothing, to monks, scholars, and the poor as part of the event’s charity.
5. What was the impact of this assembly on Harsha’s legacy?
The assembly solidified Harsha’s reputation as a patron of Buddhism and a benevolent ruler, enhancing his standing among contemporary and later rulers.
6. What records of this assembly exist today?
Xuanzang documented the assembly in his travelogue, Great Tang Records on the Western Regions, which serves as a primary source for understanding the event.
