Brihadratha Maurya facts for kids

Brihadratha was the ninth and last emperor of the Mauryan Dynasty. He ruled from 187 to 185 BCE. During his time, the Mauryan Empire had become much smaller. Its main city was Pataliputra. Brihadratha was eventually overthrown by his own general, Pushyamitra Shunga. Pushyamitra then started a new empire called the Shunga Empire.

Brihadratha's Rule

According to ancient texts called the Puranas, Brihadratha became emperor after his father, Shatadhanvan. He ruled for about three years.

How Brihadratha Lost His Throne

In 185 BCE, Brihadratha Maurya was killed by his general, Pushyamitra Shunga. Pushyamitra then took control and became the new ruler. He started the Shunga Empire.

An old book called Harshacharita by Bāṇabhaṭṭa tells us how it happened. Pushyamitra gathered the entire Mauryan army. He told Brihadratha it was to show him how strong the army was. But during this parade, Pushyamitra attacked and killed the emperor. This happened right in front of the soldiers. After this, Pushyamitra declared himself the new ruler.

Invasion from the West

Around the same time Brihadratha was overthrown, a king named Demetrius invaded parts of northwestern India. Demetrius was from the Greco-Bactrian Kingdom. This area is now parts of Afghanistan and Pakistan.

The Mauryan Empire had friendly ties with the Greeks. Some stories suggest that Brihadratha might have even married Demetrius's daughter, Berenice. The Greeks might have invaded to protect other Greek people living in India. Demetrius took control of the Kabul Valley and parts of the Punjab region. However, he soon had to leave India. He went back to Bactria to fight an important battle there.

See also

• Magadha
• Maurya Empire
• Shunga Empire