A court poet of the Gupta period, Harishena,

Who was Harishena?
Harishena was a renowned poet and minister in the Gupta court. He composed inscriptions and literary works that praised the achievements of his ruler.
His Patron:
Harishena’s patron was Samudragupta (reigned c. 335–375 CE), the second ruler of the Gupta dynasty, often called the Napoleon of India because of his extensive military conquests.
The Famous Account:
Harishena authored the Allahabad Pillar Inscription, which records Samudragupta’s campaigns.
It describes his victories over rulers in northern India, his expeditions into southern India, and his policy of reinstating defeated kings as tributaries.
The inscription is both a historical record and a piece of courtly praise, highlighting Samudragupta’s valor, generosity, and patronage of the arts.
Significance:
This inscription is one of the most important sources for reconstructing Gupta history.
It shows how poets like Harishena played a crucial role in glorifying their patrons and shaping their legacy.
Answer: Harishena’s patron was Samudragupta, whose military exploits he recorded in the Allahabad Pillar Inscription.