130. India meets Rome: Making the Image of the Buddha

This episode of the "Empire" podcast interviews William Dalrymple about the Kushan Empire, a little-known dynasty that ruled parts of Central Asia and India from the 1st century BCE to the 3rd century CE. The discussion traces the Kushans' origins, their interactions with Roman and Chinese empires, and their significant role in the development and spread of Buddhism, particularly through trade and the patronage of monasteries. Dalrymple highlights the Kushan's artistic achievements, including the development of early Buddhist iconography influenced by Greco-Roman styles, and their economic prosperity fueled by trade with the Roman Empire. A key figure discussed is Kanishka, a Kushan ruler who promoted Buddhism and convened an important Buddhist council. The interview concludes by discussing Kumarajiva, a key figure in translating Buddhist texts into Chinese, further expanding Buddhism's reach.