T he Gupta Empire (c. 320–550 CE) is often celebrated as the “Golden Age” of India. Its era was marked by sustained prosperity, cultural flowering, and intellectual achievements. As one modern textbook notes, “overall prosperity and growth” during two and a half centuries under the Guptas gave rise to a period known as India’s Golden Age. Historians have long noted that many core elements of classical Indian culture the decimal numeral system, the great Sanskrit epics, and advancements in astronomy and metallurgy were developed or codified in Gupta times. This reputation rests on the dynasty’s accomplishments in government, economics, science, religion, art and learning, which we outline below.
Historical Background and Political Achievements
The Gupta dynasty was founded by Chandra Gu