The Decline of the Gupta Empire and Its Enduring Legacy

The Gupta Empire's decline began during the fifth century CE under growing pressure from the Hephthalites, or "White Huns," a nomadic Central Asian people distinct from the Huns of Attila who were pressing on Rome's frontiers at almost exactly the same time. Kumaragupta I faced their first incursions late in his reign, and his son Skandagupta (r. c. 455-467 CE) succeeded in repelling the most dangerous early invasions, though at a cost of severe military and fiscal exhaustion that the Bhitari pillar inscription records directly.