Kacha | |
---|---|
Maharajadhiraja, Sarva-rajocchetta | |
Possible Gupta emperor | |
Reign | 4th century CE |
Successor | Possibly Samudragupta |
Kacha (Gupta script: Kā-cha, IAST: Kāca, c. 4th century) was a king of India, possibly a member of the Gupta dynasty. He is known only from his gold coins, which are similar to those of the Gupta king Samudragupta.
Kacha's identity is a matter of debate among modern historians: two popular theories are that he was either same as Samudragupta, or that he was a brother of Samudragupta. According to the first theory, Kacha may have assumed the regnal name "Samudra-gupta" after extending his empire's borders up to the ocean ("samudra"). According to the second theory, Kacha probably contested Samudragupta's claim to the throne, and ruled for a brief period. Alternative theories identify him with other Gupta rulers, or as a non-Gupta usurper.