Alexander the Great’s Army in India

Alexander the Great in India

His campaign in India was one of the most fascinating episodes of his conquests. After a series of successful campaigns across Persia, Alexander the Great crossed into the Indian subcontinent around 327 BCE.

Alexander the Great’s invasion of India began with the crossing of the Indus River.

He met and defeated King Porus at the Battle of the Hydaspes in 326 BCE, near the present-day Jhelum River in Pakistan. Porus was a regional ruler who fought valiantly and impressed Alexander with his bravery and nobility.

After the battle, Alexander allowed Porus to retain his kingdom and even granted him additional territory.

Following this victory, Alexander’s army continued to advance further into the Indian subcontinent, but they encountered difficulties. The challenges included harsh weather, difficult terrain, and fierce resistance from local rulers.

Additionally, his soldiers, who had been campaigning for years and were far from home, were weary and unwilling to march further east. This discontent, combined with the formidable forces of the Nanda dynasty to the east, led to Alexander’s decision to turn back.

In 325 BCE, Alexander’s army retraced its steps, heading back through the harsh terrain of the Gedrosian Desert (in present-day Iran), which took a heavy toll on his troops.

The campaign left a lasting impact, expanding the Hellenistic influence into the region and establishing the foundation for future interactions between the Greeks and the Indian subcontinent.

After Alexander died in 323 BCE, his empire fragmented, but his campaign into India remained a significant chapter in the history of the region.

Article first published by Khushi Jaan.

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