Chandra Gupta I (A.D 320 - A 330)

The first notable ruler of the Gupta dynasty was Chandragupta I. He assumed the title Maharajadhiraja. It denotes of his imperial status. He started a new era, called the Gupta era of A.D 319-20. He married Kumara Devi, a Lichchavi princess. This marriage alliance strengthened his position. His Empire included Magadha, Allahabad and Oudh.

Samudragupta (A.D 330 - A 380)

Samudragupta succeeded Chandragupta I. He was a worthy son of a worthy father. His Commander in Chief Harisena has narrated his achievements in the Allahabad Pillar inscription. He annexed many kingdoms along the Ganges River and expanded his empire. He proceeded towards the South after defeating nine rulers in the North (Gangetic Valley). He conquered the forest kingdoms called atavika rajyas (atavi means dense forest) in the Vindhya region. He defeated twelve rulers in the South. He came as far as Kanchipuram, where he defeated the Pallava ruler Vishnugopa. Samudragupta had set the Pallava king free. Afterwards, he returned to Pataliputra through the Western Coastal route. On completion of his conquests Digvijaya and DharmaviJaya, he performed a horse sacrifice called Aswamedhayaga. Because of his vast conquests, Dr.Smith calls him as Indian Napoleon.
Samudragupta was tolerant towards other religions. He showed interest in music and poetry. Some of his coins show him playing the Veena.