Raja Paurava and Alexander
08 March 2013
The well-known exchange between the victor and the vanquished concerning how the latter wished to be treated and his response are part of lore that is related as a sign of Alexander’s greatness, not of Paurava’s equanimity in defeat. Paurava simply pales in the presence of Alexander, but history looks at the Punjabi king differently.
From Arrian we know that Paurava was a giant of a man towering to well over seven feet in height. Paurava’s famous response about wishing to be treated like a king is also recorded. What is not known commonly is that Alexander retorted this answer was not complete and that Paurava should ask something for himself. Thereupon the raja said that he needed to ask nothing more. The majesty and grace of Paurava’s behaviour in defeat greatly impressed Alexander and he made peace by returning Paurava’s kingdom to him.
Labels: Alexander, Book of Days 2009, Raja Paurava, Tales Less Told
posted by Salman Rashid @ 08:30,
5 Comments:
- At 8 March 2013 at 16:50, Lahoremassagist said...
-
There are so many myths and made up stories about Alexander and his campaign here in Pakistan. Thanks for writing this authentic version.
- At 28 March 2013 at 21:21, Ayyub Kulla said...
-
" The battle took place outside Mong village in the district of Mandi Bahauddin" It is my village. Let us hope one day Archeology Department of Pakistan has enough budget to explore the area, particularly the village MONG. This will add heaps of heritage of wealth to the pride of the nation. The UNO should think of declaring it a WORLD HERITAGE after the exploration project is complete. Who will take the first step in this vital direction?
- At 4 October 2016 at 09:27, said...
-
I was aware of this story/historical fact before, but the way you have written this......it feels much more our own........our own land.
- At 4 October 2016 at 14:31, Salman Rashid said...
-
Of course. It is your story and mine. And it is the story of the subcontinent. Our story. The story of a truly great king.
- At 26 July 2017 at 00:29, ASHISH said...
-
white historian wrote WHITE LIES that Porus was defeated and was kneeling in front of gracious victor Alexander . TEE HEEE
Post a Comment