Decline of the Gupta Empire begins

The decline of the Gupta Empire can be traced back to the death of Skandagupta, which marked the beginning of a period characterized by weak leadership and internal conflicts. Following his reign, a succession of rulers took the throne, including Purugupta, Kumaragupta II, Budhagupta, and Narasimhagupta, among others. Each of these leaders faced significant challenges, including maintaining control over the vast territories of the empire. The Gupta coinage from this period reflects a loss of authority, particularly in western India, indicating that the empire was struggling to assert its dominance. The political instability was exacerbated by continuous invasions from the Huns, who posed a formidable threat to the Gupta territories. These invasions not only weakened the military strength of the empire but also contributed to the fragmentation of its once-unified regions. As a result, the Gupta Empire began to disintegrate, leading to the end of what is often referred to as the classical age of India, a time noted for its advancements in arts, science, and culture.