Indo-Bactrian Dynasty

Following the death of Alexander, his empire disintegrated and was taken over rival Greek generals. Parts of north-west India, comprising the present day Punjab, were ruled by dynasty called Indo-Bactrian Dynasty. This dynasty, also referred by some historians as Indo-Greek Dynasty, was established by a Greek king named Diodotos-I in 250 BC.

Diodotos-I ruled from Bactria, in Afghanistan. The fourth Bactrian king, Demetrios-I (200 - 190 BC), extended the kingdom up to Punjab, which was formerly under the dominion of the Mauryan Dynasty. His successful campaigns earned him the title 'Dharma-Mithra' and a place as a hero in many Indian folk tales. Demetrios-I was succeeded by a long lineage of successful kings. Prominent among them was Menander, believed to be born in 165 BC.

This Indian born Greek general, popularly known by the name Milinda, conquered the regions of northern India up to the basin of the Ganges. The brilliant strategies he employed in his numerous successful campaigns earned him a respectful position among the Indian people. His spate of conquests however lasted only for five years. He accepted Buddhism as his religion and gave up his royal life.

The dynasty was represented by various rulers during the first century AD. Finally, the Indo-Bactrians were finally submerged by the invasions of the Indo-Scythians, Indo-Parthians and Yuezhi.