Taxiles facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ambhi |
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Ambhi offering presents to Alexander the Great
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| King of Gandhara and its capital Takshashila (Taxila) | |
| Reign | c. 326 BC – c. 316 BC |
| Born | Taxila, Punjab |
Ambhi was a powerful king who ruled a region called Taxila in ancient India. This area is now part of modern-day Pakistan. The ancient Greeks knew him as Taxiles or Taxilas. They called him this because his capital city was named Taxila. He lived in the 4th century BC, a long time ago!
Contents
Ambhi's Rule and Alexander the Great
Ambhi became the king of Taxila. His kingdom was located between two important rivers, the Indus and the Jhelum. At that time, he had a rival, King Porus, who ruled lands to the east of the Jhelum River.
Meeting Alexander
When Alexander the Great, a famous Greek conqueror, arrived in India, Ambhi decided to make friends with him. He sent gifts to Alexander, including silver, animals, and a group of horsemen. Ambhi offered to help Alexander, perhaps hoping to gain an advantage against King Porus.
Alexander was careful when he first saw Ambhi's large army. But Ambhi quickly showed that he came in peace. He gave Alexander valuable presents and offered his army's support. Alexander was pleased. He not only let Ambhi keep his title and gifts but also gave him many expensive presents in return.
Helping Alexander's Army
Ambhi helped Alexander's army in many ways. He assisted in building a bridge over the Indus River. He also provided food and supplies for the soldiers. When Alexander and his entire army arrived in Taxila, Ambhi welcomed them warmly. He showed great hospitality to the Macedonian king and his troops.
Later, Ambhi joined Alexander with 5,000 of his own soldiers. He fought alongside Alexander in a major battle known as the Battle of the Hydaspes. This battle was against his rival, King Porus.
After Alexander
After Alexander the Great left India, his control over the region weakened. Eventually, a new powerful ruler named Chandragupta Maurya took over the lands that Alexander's generals had controlled. Chandragupta Maurya established the great Mauryan Empire around 317 BC.
See also
- Porus
- Abisares
- Cleophis
- Pushkarasarin
