Harsha of Kashmir
Harsha, also Harshadeva, (ruled 1089-1101 CE) was a Hindu king of Kashmir. He was given the epithet "raja-Turushka" (Turk king).
| Harsha | |
|---|---|
Silver Coin of Harsha of Kashmir
Left: Harsha riding horse right; Sharada legend Sri Harsha Deva above Right: Goddess Lakshmi seated facing on lotus, holding lotus and vase. | |
| Maharaja of Kashmir | |
| Reign | 1089-1101 AD |
| Predecessor | Maharaja Ajitdeva |
| Successor | Kushaladitya IV |
| Born | 1059 AD Kashmir |
| Died | 1101 AD Kashmir |
| Spouse | Kusal Rani Vartakar Rani |
| Issue | Adesheva Maharani Ajirani |
| House | Lohara dynasty |
| Father | Maharaja Kalasha |
| Mother | Eshant Maharani |
| Religion | Hindu |
Harsha belonged to the First Lohara dynasty, of which he was the last ruler. According to Kalhana, Harsha was built like a god and was extremely handsome. Harsha's conduct has recently been a subject of discussion. Harsha started out as a capable and noble king, then ran into financial trouble because of his spending habits. He was the son of king Kalasha of Kashmir. According to Pandit Prithvi Nath Kaul Bamzai, A History of Kashmir, pp. 143,’ Kalhana mentioned even night soil was taxed under his rule . Extravagant expenditure on his troops and senseless pleasure involved him in grave financial difficulties .His accidental discovery of hoarded treasures at the Bhimasahi, induces him to spoilage other temple and he started melting gold and silver images of god and goddess’’