The Apracharajas: A History Based on Coins and Inscriptions

by Prashant Srivastava

The monograph aims at highlighting the significant role played by the family of the Apracha kings in ancient Indian history, and at connecting this family of the Apracha kings with the Asvaka tribe.

The work is divided into six chapters. Chapter I deals with the history of the family of the Apracha kings. The membes of this family acted as subordinate rulers and strategoi, first under the Indo-Greeks and subsequently under the Saka-Pahlavas, till finally Sasan was able to establish himself as an independent ruler after the death of his overlord, Gondopharnes. In Chapter II are detailed the coins issued by the members of this family.

Chapter III deals with the antiqity and habiat of the Asvaka tribe. In Chapter IV, various aspects of the coins of the Asvakas have been discussed. Chapter V is the proposition to connect the family of the Apracha kings with the Asvaka tribe. Chapter VI is concerned with the socio-political and religious milieu.

Then follow three Appendics. In Appendix I, the case for the existence of two ings named Azes has been pleaded. Appendix II deals with the date of GTondopharnes. In Appendix III, some important inscriptions of the family of the Apracha Kings have been dealt with. This is followed by a Bibliography.

In this endeavour, epigraphic and numismatic sources have been of immense help. Besides, literary and archaeological data have also been amply utilized in this study, wherever relevant.