The
Chalukya dynasty that rose to power in Central India reigned from the fifth to eighth century and re-emerged to rule from the tenth to twelfth century. Pulakesin II was the greatest ruler of the Chalukya dynasty. His reign lasted from 608 to 642. During his reign, Pulakesin established his authority in
Maharashtra and conquered large parts of Central India. His greatest achievement was his victory over another powerful king from the north, King
Harshavardhana of Thaneswar (in
Haryana) in 620.
Pulakesin was defeated and killed by King Narasimhavarman of Pallava Dynasty, another dominant dynasty in South India, in 642. Pulakesin’s capital Vatapi was completely destroyed in this war.
