Buddha and Bodhisattvas, 11th century, Pala Empire.

The Pala Empire controlled Bihar and Bengal India, from the 8th to the 12th century. The name Pala means "protector" and was used as an ending to the names of all Pala monarchs.

The founder of the empire was Gopala. He reigned from 750-770 consolidated his position by extending his control over all Bengal. His successor was Dharmapala (770-781). He made the Palas a dominant power of northern India. The Empire disintegrated in the 12th century under the attacks of the Senas.

The Palas were followers of Mahayana Buddhism. They created many temples and works of art and supported the Universities of Nalanda and Vikramashila. Their proselytism was at the origin of the establishment of Buddhism in Tibet.

Main Pala rulers

• Gopala (750-770)
• Dharmapala (770-781)
• Devapala (810-850)
• Rampala (1077-1120)