2018-05-12 Sat

Gandhara was one of the sixteen Mahajanapada in ancient India. The Kingdom of Gandhara was extended from Kabul in Afghanistan to Peshawar in Pakistan.

In around 6th Century BE, Gandhara was also conquered by Persian emperor Darius. The Behistun inscription of Darius, c. 520-518 BC refers to Gandhara was one of the kingdoms subjected to the Persian Empire. Chandragupta Maurya had also conquered this Janapada.

The Gandhara community had a long cultural influence. In the 3rd Century BC, the great Ashoka have sent Buddhist missionary named ‘Majjhantika’ to this Janapada and the region became a follower of Buddhism. Later on, during the rule of Kushan Empire, in the 1 Century AD, the region had maintained a good relationship with Rome. The Famous university of Takshashila is situated in this Janapada.

The coins which were issued by this Janapada are long bend bar type, with two symbol punches at both the ends.

Image Courtesy: Todywalla Auction