The Ancient Geography of India. I. The Buddhist Period, including the Campaigns of Alexander, and the Travels of Hwen-Thsang c5.s4.t24.5

c5.s4.t24.5

The country at the confluence of the Panjâb rivers is assigned by Curtius to the *Sambracæ* or *Sabracæ*, and by Diodorus to the *Sambastæ*. They are not mentioned by Arrian, at least under this name; but I think that the *Ossadii*, who tendered their allegiance to Alexander at the confluence of the rivers, were the same people. It is probable also that the *Abastani*, who were subdued by Perdikkas, belonged to the same class. Perdikkas had been dispatched by Alexander to the east of the Râvi, where he captured a town which I have identified with Harapa. I infer that his campaign must have been an extended one, as Alexander, whose own movements had been delayed by his wound, was still obliged to halt for him at the confluence of the rivers. It seems highly probable therefore that he may have carried the Greek arms to *Ajudhan* on the banks of the Satlej, from which his march would have been along the course of that river by Ludhan, Mailsi, Kahror, and Lodhran, to Alexander's camp at Uchh. In this route he must have encountered the *Johiya* Rajputs, who have occupied both banks of the Satlej from Ajudhan to Uchh from time immemorial. I think therefore that the Abastani, whom Perdikkas subdued have a strong claim to be identified with the Johiya Rajputs. The country about Multân is still called Johiya-bár or Yaudheya-wára.