The Gupta dynasty came to power in northern India. During the Gupta period, Indian civilization enjoyed a golden age of peace, good government, and cultural development. Beautiful cities arose, and universities were founded. Sanskrit literature, particularly drama, flourished during the Gupta era. India became a center of art, learning, and medicine. In music and dance, complex forms were developed that still serve as the basis of classical music and dance in India. The Gupta emperors were Hindus, but Buddhism also thrived under their rule.<NP> Each Gupta ruler enlarged the empire. The Guptas eventually ruled a territory that included all northern India and parts of Afghanistan.
