Arthur Berriedale Keith

Harisena was a prominent Sanskrit poet and court official during the 4th century, serving under the Gupta emperor Samudragupta. He is primarily recognized for his famous poem, composed around 345 C.E., which celebrates the emperor's valor. This significant work is inscribed on the Allahabad Pillar, with at least one known inscription being a panegyric.

Keith identifies Harisena as an early practitioner of Kāvya poetry, noting that his poem, despite containing both prose and verse, carries the explicit title 'Kavya'. Its structure is comparable to the portrayals of kings found in the prose romances of Subandhu and Bana. While several works are attributed to Harisena, some may also belong to other individuals with the same name. These include texts like Apabramsa Dharmapariksa, Karpuraprakara, the medical treatise Jagatsundari-Yogamaladhikara, Yasodharacanta, Astahnikakatha, and Brhatkathakosa. He also held the position of chief minister within Samudragupta's empire. Harisena shared a personal interest in playing the lute with Samudragupta and played a role in the emperor's marriage to Dattadevi.

Harisena stands as an early exponent of Kāvya poetry, a genre that blends poetic and narrative elements. Arthur Berriedale Keith observed that Harisena's poem, explicitly titled 'Kavya,' is notable for its inclusion of both prose and verse. This mixed-media approach, according to Keith, echoes the structural patterns seen in the prose romances authored by Subandhu and Bana, particularly in their characterizations of royalty. The inscription on the Allahabad Pillar serves as a testament to Harisena's skill in crafting panegyrics, praising the achievements of Emperor Samudragupta.

Beyond his literary achievements, Harisena was a significant figure within the court of Emperor Samudragupta. He held the esteemed position of chief minister, demonstrating his administrative capabilities and influence within the Gupta empire. His personal relationship with the emperor extended to shared interests, such as playing the lute, and he also played a role in the significant event of Samudragupta's marriage to Dattadevi, highlighting his multifaceted involvement in the emperor's life and reign.

“Harisena's poem bears expressly the title Kavya, though it consists both of prose and verse. Its structure is similar to the delineation of kings adopted in the prose romances of Subandhu and Bana”