Bengal Before the British: Rediscovering the Pala Dynasty’s Golden Age in Science, Culture, and Trade

Bengal is widely known as the start of British empire and Palashi war, the rich history of pre British era of Bengal is completely erased, In my endeavor to revive the lost glory let's look back and let's be proud:

The Pala dynasty, which ruled Bengal and parts of Bihar from the 8th to the 12th century, played a transformative role in shaping the prosperity, culture, and scientific advancements of the Indian subcontinent, especially in Bengal. Their reign is widely regarded as a golden era for the region, marked by stability, cultural synthesis, and intellectual flourishing.​

Contributions in Science and Education

The Pala rulers were renowned patrons of learning and education. They revived and expanded Nalanda University, one of the world’s first great universities, and established Vikramashila University, which became a major center for Buddhist scholarship and attracted students from across Asia. The universities fostered advancements in philosophy, medicine, astronomy, and mathematics. Scholars like Jimutavahana, Sandhyakar Nandi, Madhavakara, Suresvara, and Chakrapani Datta flourished under Pala patronage, contributing to Sanskrit and Buddhist literature and the development of the Gauda riti style of composition.​

Cultural and Religious Impact

The Pala dynasty was a staunch supporter of Mahayana Buddhism, but also encouraged a syncretic culture that blended Hindu and Buddhist traditions. They built magnificent monasteries such as Somapura Mahavihara (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and Vikramashila, which became centers of art, architecture, and religious study. The dynasty’s patronage led to the creation of terracotta temples and stupas, with sculptures and paintings reflecting a mix of Buddhist and Hindu motifs. The Charyapada, written in Proto-Bengali, is considered the earliest literary work in the Bengali language and was produced during this period.​

Navigation and Trade

The Pala navy played a crucial role in both mercantile and defensive operations in the Bay of Bengal, facilitating trade and cultural exchange with Southeast Asia. Their maritime activities helped Bengal become a hub for commerce, connecting the region with Sri Lanka, Tibet, and the islands of Southeast Asia. This contributed to the economic prosperity of Bengal and the spread of Indian culture and Buddhism abroad.​

Military Achievements

The Pala army was noted for its vast war elephant corps and effective cavalry, making it a formidable force in northern India. Rulers like Dharmapala and Devapala expanded the empire’s territory through strategic military campaigns, asserting dominance over Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Assam, and parts of Central India. The Palas were astute diplomats, engaging in the tripartite struggle with the Pratiharas and Rashtrakutas for control over Kannauj, a key political and cultural center.​

Prominent Personalities and Their Contributions

• Gopala (750–770 CE): Founder of the Pala dynasty, he unified Bengal and established political stability after a period of anarchy.​
• Dharmapala (770–810 CE): Expanded the empire and established Vikramashila University, becoming a leading patron of education and Buddhism.​
• Devapala (810–850 CE): Brought the empire to its zenith, expanded its influence, and strengthened trade and military power.​
• Mahipala I (988–1038 CE): Revived the Pala empire after a period of decline, restored administrative and military strength, and promoted public welfare.​
• Ramapala (1077–1130 CE): Successfully defended the empire against external threats and authored the administrative treatise "Ramacharitam".​

The Pala dynasty’s legacy is evident in the enduring influence of their universities, the architectural marvels they left behind, and the cultural synthesis they fostered in Bengal and beyond.

Key monuments from the Pala dynasty include Somapura Mahavihara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Dharmapala in present-day Paharpur, Bangladesh, renowned for its terracotta plaques and cruciform layout. Vikramashila University, established by Dharmapala in Bihar, features ruins of a massive central stupa surrounded by monk cells, showcasing advanced Buddhist architecture. Odantapuri Vihara in Bihar, another Pala foundation, displays intricate brickwork and monastic cells from the 8th century. Terracotta sculptures and plaques from Paharpur depict deities like Vishnu and everyday scenes, exemplifying Pala artistry. Bronze images of Buddhist figures such as Hevajra from Bengal museums highlight the dynasty's sculptural excellence.