The Satavahanas (also known as the Satakarnis or Salivahanas) ruled the Deccan from c. 232 BCE to c. 208 CE. Originating in present-day Telangana, they rose to power after the decline of the Mauryan Empire and became one of the most influential dynasties of early India. The Satavahanas consolidated political authority across the Deccan, controlled vital trade routes including extensive commerce with the Roman world and actively supported agriculture, crafts, and guild-based industries.
They were also notable patrons of religion and culture, extending support to Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism, which is reflected in the art and architecture of sites such as Amaravati, Nashik, and Karle. Their administration combined dynastic rule with unique features such as succession occasionally passing through queens which set them apart from many contemporary dynasties. The Satavahanas thus laid enduring foundations in politics, economy, and culture, shaping the historical trajectory of southern and central India.
Founder: Simuka
Capitals: Kotilingala, Pratishthana, Amaravati
Language: Prakrit (Brahmi script), Sanskrit
Religion: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism
Geographical Extent: Deccan region, including modern Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and parts of central India
Coins from Kotilingala, Nasik, Pauni, Amaravati, and Guntur provide a chronological framework for the dynasty, with early coins of Simuka, Kanha, and Satakarni I, followed by Gautamiputra and Pulumavi in the 1st–2nd centuries CE, and finally Yajna Sri Satakarni in the 2nd century CE.
The dynasty began around c. 232 BCE, shortly after the death of Ashoka, and lasted until approximately 208 CE, ending with Mathariputra Sri Pulumavi. Chronological correlations with Western Kshatrapa rulers, inscriptions such as the Nasik Prasasti, overstruck coins, and Puranic lists help historians fix dates and verify key events, such as the defeat of Nahapana by Gautamiputra Satakarni around 78 CE
Purindrasena
Sundara Satakarni
Chakora Satakarni
Shivasvati
Agricultural Base
The Deccan plateau, with its rich black soil, provided an excellent foundation for farming. Crops such as cotton, rice, and other staples sustained both the local population and a vibrant textile industry. Agriculture was not only a source of food security but also supplied raw materials for trade.
Internal and External Trade
The Satavahanas played a vital role in connecting North and South India through their inland trade networks. Their geographic position also gave them command over the most important international trade routes of the time.
Western Coast: Ports such as Kalyan, Sopara, and Bharuch linked India with the Roman world.
Eastern Coast: Ports like Amaravati and Dharanikota connected them with Southeast Asia.
Trade with Rome
One of the hallmarks of Satavahana prosperity was their flourishing trade with the Roman Empire. Indian merchants exported pepper, cotton textiles, ivory, precious stones, and silk, while Roman traders supplied gold, wine, and luxury goods. Archaeological discoveries—especially hoards of Roman gold coins in South India—stand as evidence of this thriving exchange.
Currency System
To facilitate such extensive commerce, the Satavahanas issued coins in lead, copper, and silver. Many were bilingual, inscribed in Prakrit and Dravidian languages, reflecting the cultural and commercial diversity of their realm.
Industry and Guilds
The economy was further supported by specialized industries and guilds. Artisans such as goldsmiths, stone-cutters, weavers, and potters were organized into guilds that regulated quality, protected interests, and contributed to temple and civic donations.
Maritime Control
The Satavahanas also exercised authority over ports such as Kalliena (Kalyan) and Sopara, where they levied taxes on foreign merchants. This not only enriched their treasury but also secured their dominance over maritime trade routes.
Satavahana society broadly followed the varna system, with Brahmins, warriors, merchants, and artisans forming its base. However, inscriptions reveal that the highest administrative posts were not restricted to a single varna. This suggests a measure of social mobility and flexibility, especially in an expanding and trade-driven state.
Religious Life
The Satavahanas were notable patrons of multiple religions.
Hinduism (Vedic Brahmanism): Brahmins received land grants, and rituals were actively patronized.
Buddhism: The dynasty supported Buddhist monks and institutions, donating to viharas, chaityas, and stupas, including the great Amaravati Stupa.
Jainism: Though less prominent, it was tolerated and had followers in the Deccan.
They were also notable patrons of religion and culture, extending support to Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism, which is reflected in the art and architecture of sites such as Amaravati, Nashik, and Karle. Their administration combined dynastic rule with unique features such as succession occasionally passing through queens which set them apart from many contemporary dynasties. The Satavahanas thus laid enduring foundations in politics, economy, and culture, shaping the historical trajectory of southern and central India.
Founder: Simuka
Capitals: Kotilingala, Pratishthana, Amaravati
Language: Prakrit (Brahmi script), Sanskrit
Religion: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism
Geographical Extent: Deccan region, including modern Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and parts of central India
1. Origins and Rise
The early Satavahanas rose from the Kotilingala region in Telangana, which served as the nucleus of their power. Excavations there have revealed coins and inscriptions demonstrating the transition from local chieftains to Satavahana rule. Before their rise, the region was controlled by local rulers such as Gobhada, Siri Kamvaya, Vayasiri, and Samagopa, whose punch-marked coins are found in the lower archaeological layers. The earliest Satavahana kings—Simuka, Siri Satavahana, and Satakarni I—appear in upper layers, literally layered above these pre-Satavahana rulers, confirming both conquest and succession.Coins from Kotilingala, Nasik, Pauni, Amaravati, and Guntur provide a chronological framework for the dynasty, with early coins of Simuka, Kanha, and Satakarni I, followed by Gautamiputra and Pulumavi in the 1st–2nd centuries CE, and finally Yajna Sri Satakarni in the 2nd century CE.
The dynasty began around c. 232 BCE, shortly after the death of Ashoka, and lasted until approximately 208 CE, ending with Mathariputra Sri Pulumavi. Chronological correlations with Western Kshatrapa rulers, inscriptions such as the Nasik Prasasti, overstruck coins, and Puranic lists help historians fix dates and verify key events, such as the defeat of Nahapana by Gautamiputra Satakarni around 78 CE
2. Rulers
The dates for Satavahana rulers are approximate and derived from interpretations of Puranic genealogies. They should be treated as a relative chronology rather than absolute dates.Early Rulers
c. 232 BC : Sri Satavahana
Early copper coins found at Kondapur (Telangana) and Aurangabad/Akola (Maharashtra). Lead coins found at Nevasa and Kondapur.
c. 232 BC – 208 BC : Sri Chimuka (Simuka) Satavahana (23 Years)
Founder of the dynasty. Conquered territories from local rulers like Gobhadra and Samagopa, establishing Satavahana power at Kotilingala.
Evidence: Coins bearing the name 'Simukha' found at Kotilingala and Kapparaopet village (Telangana).
208 BC – c. 190 BC : Krsna (Kanha) (18 Years)
Brother of Simuka.
Evidence: The earliest Satavahana inscription, located in Cave No. 19 of the Nasik Caves, written in Prakrit (Brahmi script), mentions "King Krsna of the Sātavāhana family."
Son of Simuka. A powerful early king who performed Vedic sacrifices and expanded his influence. Married Nayanika (Naganika), daughter of the Maharathi Tranakayiro.
Evidence: The extensive Naneghat inscription records his achievements and family. The Sanchi inscription records the gift of the Southern Gateway by his foreman of artists, Ananda.
172 BC – 154 BC : Purnotsanga (Vedi Sri) and Haku Sri (Sakti Sri) (18 Years)
Successors of Satakarni I. Queen Naganika likely acted as regent. The period is marked by co-rule or succession between brothers.
Evidence: Naneghat inscriptions mention Kumara Hakusiri. An inscription from Gattusingaram (Telangana) confirms the Asmaka Janapada was part of their domain. Coins of Sakti Sri found in Vidisha and Ujjain.
154 BC – 98 BC : Sri Satakarni II (56 Years)
A long-reigning monarch who expanded the empire, conquering eastern Malwa from the Shungas. He is credited with building the decorated gateways around the Great Stupa at Sanchi.
Evidence: His reign is noted in the Puranic lists.
c. 80 BC – 68 BC : Apilaka (12 Years)
c. 68 BC – 50 BC : Meghasvati (18 Years)
c. 50 BC – 38 BC : Svati (12 Years)
c. 38 BC – 31 BC : Skandasvati (7 Years)
c. 31 BC – 28 BC : Mrigendra Satakarni (3 Years)
c. 28 BC – 20 BC : Kuntala Satakarni (8 Years)
c. 20 BC – 21 BC : Svatikarna (Satakarni III) (1 Year)
His reign saw active trade with the Roman world at ports like Kalliena.
c. 3 AD – 28 AD : Arishta Satakarni (Gaura Krishna) (25 Years)
Towards the end of his reign, the Saka Western Kshatrapas, under Bhumaka, began establishing their rule in Gujarat and Kathiawar.
c. 28 AD – 32 AD : Hala (5 Years)
A renowned patron of literature. He is famous as the compiler/author of the Prakrit poetic anthology "Gaha Sattasai" (Gatha Saptasati). The scholar Gunadhya, author of the Brihatkatha, was his contemporary.
c. 32 AD – c. 60 AD : Period of Western Kshatrapa Invasion
The Western Kshatrapas, under Nahapana, invaded and occupied northern Maharashtra (Pune, Nashik districts), forcing the Satavahanas to abandon Junnar and retreat to Pratishthana (Paithan). By c. 50 AD, Nahapana had captured the important port of Kalliena.
Early copper coins found at Kondapur (Telangana) and Aurangabad/Akola (Maharashtra). Lead coins found at Nevasa and Kondapur.
c. 232 BC – 208 BC : Sri Chimuka (Simuka) Satavahana (23 Years)
Founder of the dynasty. Conquered territories from local rulers like Gobhadra and Samagopa, establishing Satavahana power at Kotilingala.
Evidence: Coins bearing the name 'Simukha' found at Kotilingala and Kapparaopet village (Telangana).
208 BC – c. 190 BC : Krsna (Kanha) (18 Years)
Brother of Simuka.
Evidence: The earliest Satavahana inscription, located in Cave No. 19 of the Nasik Caves, written in Prakrit (Brahmi script), mentions "King Krsna of the Sātavāhana family."
The First Zenith: Expansion and Patronage
c. 190 BC – 172 BC : Sri Satakarni I (18 Years)Son of Simuka. A powerful early king who performed Vedic sacrifices and expanded his influence. Married Nayanika (Naganika), daughter of the Maharathi Tranakayiro.
Evidence: The extensive Naneghat inscription records his achievements and family. The Sanchi inscription records the gift of the Southern Gateway by his foreman of artists, Ananda.
172 BC – 154 BC : Purnotsanga (Vedi Sri) and Haku Sri (Sakti Sri) (18 Years)
Successors of Satakarni I. Queen Naganika likely acted as regent. The period is marked by co-rule or succession between brothers.
Evidence: Naneghat inscriptions mention Kumara Hakusiri. An inscription from Gattusingaram (Telangana) confirms the Asmaka Janapada was part of their domain. Coins of Sakti Sri found in Vidisha and Ujjain.
154 BC – 98 BC : Sri Satakarni II (56 Years)
A long-reigning monarch who expanded the empire, conquering eastern Malwa from the Shungas. He is credited with building the decorated gateways around the Great Stupa at Sanchi.
Evidence: His reign is noted in the Puranic lists.
A Period of Lesser-Known Rulers
c. 98 BC – 80 BC : Lambodara (18 Years)c. 80 BC – 68 BC : Apilaka (12 Years)
c. 68 BC – 50 BC : Meghasvati (18 Years)
c. 50 BC – 38 BC : Svati (12 Years)
c. 38 BC – 31 BC : Skandasvati (7 Years)
c. 31 BC – 28 BC : Mrigendra Satakarni (3 Years)
c. 28 BC – 20 BC : Kuntala Satakarni (8 Years)
c. 20 BC – 21 BC : Svatikarna (Satakarni III) (1 Year)
Revival and Conflict with the Western Kshatrapas
c. 21 BC – 3 AD : Pulumavi I (24 Years)His reign saw active trade with the Roman world at ports like Kalliena.
c. 3 AD – 28 AD : Arishta Satakarni (Gaura Krishna) (25 Years)
Towards the end of his reign, the Saka Western Kshatrapas, under Bhumaka, began establishing their rule in Gujarat and Kathiawar.
c. 28 AD – 32 AD : Hala (5 Years)
A renowned patron of literature. He is famous as the compiler/author of the Prakrit poetic anthology "Gaha Sattasai" (Gatha Saptasati). The scholar Gunadhya, author of the Brihatkatha, was his contemporary.
c. 32 AD – c. 60 AD : Period of Western Kshatrapa Invasion
The Western Kshatrapas, under Nahapana, invaded and occupied northern Maharashtra (Pune, Nashik districts), forcing the Satavahanas to abandon Junnar and retreat to Pratishthana (Paithan). By c. 50 AD, Nahapana had captured the important port of Kalliena.
Several minor or poorly attested rulers are mentioned for this period:
Mandalaka (Puttalaka)Purindrasena
Sundara Satakarni
Chakora Satakarni
Shivasvati
The Satavahana Golden Age: The Great Restorers
c. 60 AD – c. 84 AD : Gautamiputra Satakarni (24 Years)
His name, meaning 'Satakarni, son of Gautami', highlights the importance of the mother's line in this period. The greatest Satavahana emperor. He defeated the Western Kshatrapa king Nahapana (c. 78 AD) in a fierce battle near Nashik, reclaiming lost territories and restoring the glory of the dynasty. His inscriptions proclaim him as the "Destroyer of Sakas, Yavanas (Greeks) and Pahlavas (Parthians)". His empire was vast, stretching from the Arabian Sea to the Bay of Bengal.
Evidence: Extensive inscriptions at Nasik and Karle, including the famous Nasik Prasasti (eulogy) authored by his mother, Gautami Balasri. He was the first Satavahana to issue silver portrait coins.
c. 84 AD – c. 120 AD : Vasisthiputra Pulumavi II (36 Years)
Son and successor of Gautamiputra. He consolidated the empire and engaged in prolonged struggle with the Western Kshatrapa ruler Chastana. A treaty involving a matrimonial alliance and the cession of Ujjain to the Kshatrapas likely secured his northern border, allowing for southern expansion into Andhra.
Evidence: Numerous inscriptions across the Deccan, including the first Satavahana inscription in Andhra Pradesh at Amaravati. The Karle inscription mentions his minister, Maharathi Somadeva.
Son of Pulumavi II. To secure peace, he married the daughter of the powerful Western Kshatrapa king Rudradaman I.
Evidence: Coins found in the Krishna and Godavari valleys. Inscriptions at Kanaganahalli and Kanheri.
c. 145 AD – 152 AD : Sivaskanda Satakarni (7 Years)
Despite the matrimonial alliance, Rudradaman defeated the Satavahanas (as recorded in his Junagadh Rock Inscription of 150 AD), though he spared Satakarni due to their family relationship. The Satavahanas lost significant northern territories but retained their core in the Deccan.
c. 152 AD – 181 AD : Gautamiputra Sri Yajna Satakarni (29 Years)
The last significant Satavahana ruler. He recaptured the southern coasts of Maharashtra and Konkan from the Kshatrapas, restoring a degree of prosperity and control over trade routes.
Evidence: Inscriptions at Nashik, Kanheri, Kanaganahalli, Chinna Ganjam (year 27), and Amaravati.
181 AD – 187 AD : Gautamiputra Vijaya Satakarni (6 Years)
Evidence: His Chebrolu inscription (186 AD) in Guntur is the earliest datable Sanskrit inscription from South India.
187 AD – 198 AD : Vasisthiputra Sricandra Satakarni (11 Years)
Evidence: Coins found in the Krishna and Godavari districts. Inscriptions from Kanaganahalli.
198 AD – 208 AD : Mathariputra Sri Pulumavi (10 Years)
The last known Satavahana ruler. His reign saw the rise of the Abhiras in the western Deccan (c. 203 AD) and the final breakaway of the southeastern territories under the Ikshvakus.
Evidence: Inscription from Kanaganahalli.
Evidence: Extensive inscriptions at Nasik and Karle, including the famous Nasik Prasasti (eulogy) authored by his mother, Gautami Balasri. He was the first Satavahana to issue silver portrait coins.
c. 84 AD – c. 120 AD : Vasisthiputra Pulumavi II (36 Years)
Son and successor of Gautamiputra. He consolidated the empire and engaged in prolonged struggle with the Western Kshatrapa ruler Chastana. A treaty involving a matrimonial alliance and the cession of Ujjain to the Kshatrapas likely secured his northern border, allowing for southern expansion into Andhra.
Evidence: Numerous inscriptions across the Deccan, including the first Satavahana inscription in Andhra Pradesh at Amaravati. The Karle inscription mentions his minister, Maharathi Somadeva.
Later Rulers and the Decline of the Dynasty
c. 120 AD – c. 145 AD : Vasisthiputra Sivasri Satakarni (25 Years)Son of Pulumavi II. To secure peace, he married the daughter of the powerful Western Kshatrapa king Rudradaman I.
Evidence: Coins found in the Krishna and Godavari valleys. Inscriptions at Kanaganahalli and Kanheri.
c. 145 AD – 152 AD : Sivaskanda Satakarni (7 Years)
Despite the matrimonial alliance, Rudradaman defeated the Satavahanas (as recorded in his Junagadh Rock Inscription of 150 AD), though he spared Satakarni due to their family relationship. The Satavahanas lost significant northern territories but retained their core in the Deccan.
c. 152 AD – 181 AD : Gautamiputra Sri Yajna Satakarni (29 Years)
The last significant Satavahana ruler. He recaptured the southern coasts of Maharashtra and Konkan from the Kshatrapas, restoring a degree of prosperity and control over trade routes.
Evidence: Inscriptions at Nashik, Kanheri, Kanaganahalli, Chinna Ganjam (year 27), and Amaravati.
181 AD – 187 AD : Gautamiputra Vijaya Satakarni (6 Years)
Evidence: His Chebrolu inscription (186 AD) in Guntur is the earliest datable Sanskrit inscription from South India.
187 AD – 198 AD : Vasisthiputra Sricandra Satakarni (11 Years)
Evidence: Coins found in the Krishna and Godavari districts. Inscriptions from Kanaganahalli.
198 AD – 208 AD : Mathariputra Sri Pulumavi (10 Years)
The last known Satavahana ruler. His reign saw the rise of the Abhiras in the western Deccan (c. 203 AD) and the final breakaway of the southeastern territories under the Ikshvakus.
Evidence: Inscription from Kanaganahalli.
3. Administration
The Satavahana state was a decentralized feudal monarchy. The king (Raja) was supreme, assisted by the crown prince (Kumara) and local feudatories (Maharathis, Mahabhojas). Ministers (Amatyas or Mahamatras) oversaw policy, revenue, justice, and warfare. Provinces (Aharas/Rashtras) were administered by Rashtrikas, while towns (Nagars) and villages (Grams) had their local officers.Revenue came from land taxes, trade tolls, and tributes.
Law & Order: They followed the Dharmashastras (Hindu legal texts). inscriptions show they upheld social order and legal traditions.4. Economy and Trade
The Satavahana Empire drew its strength from two key pillars: agriculture and trade. Their control over fertile lands and strategic trade routes made them one of the most prosperous dynasties in ancient India.Agricultural Base
The Deccan plateau, with its rich black soil, provided an excellent foundation for farming. Crops such as cotton, rice, and other staples sustained both the local population and a vibrant textile industry. Agriculture was not only a source of food security but also supplied raw materials for trade.
Internal and External Trade
The Satavahanas played a vital role in connecting North and South India through their inland trade networks. Their geographic position also gave them command over the most important international trade routes of the time.
Western Coast: Ports such as Kalyan, Sopara, and Bharuch linked India with the Roman world.
Eastern Coast: Ports like Amaravati and Dharanikota connected them with Southeast Asia.
Trade with Rome
One of the hallmarks of Satavahana prosperity was their flourishing trade with the Roman Empire. Indian merchants exported pepper, cotton textiles, ivory, precious stones, and silk, while Roman traders supplied gold, wine, and luxury goods. Archaeological discoveries—especially hoards of Roman gold coins in South India—stand as evidence of this thriving exchange.
Currency System
To facilitate such extensive commerce, the Satavahanas issued coins in lead, copper, and silver. Many were bilingual, inscribed in Prakrit and Dravidian languages, reflecting the cultural and commercial diversity of their realm.
Industry and Guilds
The economy was further supported by specialized industries and guilds. Artisans such as goldsmiths, stone-cutters, weavers, and potters were organized into guilds that regulated quality, protected interests, and contributed to temple and civic donations.
Maritime Control
The Satavahanas also exercised authority over ports such as Kalliena (Kalyan) and Sopara, where they levied taxes on foreign merchants. This not only enriched their treasury but also secured their dominance over maritime trade routes.
5. Society
Social Structure and MobilitySatavahana society broadly followed the varna system, with Brahmins, warriors, merchants, and artisans forming its base. However, inscriptions reveal that the highest administrative posts were not restricted to a single varna. This suggests a measure of social mobility and flexibility, especially in an expanding and trade-driven state.
Religious Life
The Satavahanas were notable patrons of multiple religions.
Hinduism (Vedic Brahmanism): Brahmins received land grants, and rituals were actively patronized.
Buddhism: The dynasty supported Buddhist monks and institutions, donating to viharas, chaityas, and stupas, including the great Amaravati Stupa.
Jainism: Though less prominent, it was tolerated and had followers in the Deccan.
6. Art and Culture
Language and Literature
The court and inscriptions primarily used Prakrit in the Brahmi script, though Sanskrit gained increasing importance. The celebrated anthology Gathasaptasati (Prakrit love poems, traditionally attributed to Hāla, a Satavahana king) reflects the literary vitality of the period. Works such as the Brihatkatha are also linked with their cultural milieu.
Art and Architecture
The Satavahanas left an enduring artistic legacy. They were patrons of the Ajanta and Ellora caves, Karle chaityas, Nashik caves, and the Amaravati Stupa, which showcase sophisticated stone-carving and narrative reliefs. Buddhist chaityas and viharas flourished under their rule, serving as both religious and cultural centers.
Education and Learning
Learning was closely tied to religious institutions. Buddhist monasteries doubled as centers of education, while the court provided literary patronage. The coexistence of Prakrit and Sanskrit traditions fostered a dynamic intellectual climate.
Alliances: Marital alliances with Saka rulers (Rudradaman I) and local feudatories.
Trade: Roman Empire (via ports Kalliena, Sopara); Mediterranean goods imported; exports included silk, pearls, ivory, cotton.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/107159028.cms?utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst
Some Early Dynasties of South India By Sudhakar Chattopadhyaya
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satavahana_dynasty
http://asiasworld.net/india/royal-dynasties-in-india/satavahana-dynasty/index.cfm
The court and inscriptions primarily used Prakrit in the Brahmi script, though Sanskrit gained increasing importance. The celebrated anthology Gathasaptasati (Prakrit love poems, traditionally attributed to Hāla, a Satavahana king) reflects the literary vitality of the period. Works such as the Brihatkatha are also linked with their cultural milieu.
Art and Architecture
The Satavahanas left an enduring artistic legacy. They were patrons of the Ajanta and Ellora caves, Karle chaityas, Nashik caves, and the Amaravati Stupa, which showcase sophisticated stone-carving and narrative reliefs. Buddhist chaityas and viharas flourished under their rule, serving as both religious and cultural centers.
Education and Learning
Learning was closely tied to religious institutions. Buddhist monasteries doubled as centers of education, while the court provided literary patronage. The coexistence of Prakrit and Sanskrit traditions fostered a dynamic intellectual climate.
7. Foreign Relations
Rivals: Western Kshatrapas (Sakas), Yavanas, Pahlavas.Alliances: Marital alliances with Saka rulers (Rudradaman I) and local feudatories.
Trade: Roman Empire (via ports Kalliena, Sopara); Mediterranean goods imported; exports included silk, pearls, ivory, cotton.
8. Achievements and Legacy
Political Achievements
The Satavahanas unified much of the Deccan under their rule, creating stability in a region that had fragmented after the Mauryas. Their most notable king, Gautamiputra Satakarni, secured decisive victories over the Sakas, Yavanas, and Pahlavas, restoring Deccan power and prestige.
Economic Growth
They presided over a flourishing agrarian and commercial economy, sustained by cotton cultivation and craft industries. Organized artisan guilds (of weavers, potters, metal workers) played a vital role in production and trade. The wide circulation of their lead, copper, and silver coins demonstrates their economic strength and administrative reach.
Cultural Patronage
The dynasty left an enduring mark on art and architecture, with monumental works at Amaravati, Karle, and Nashik. They supported Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism, encouraging a multi-religious culture. Literature in Prakritflourished, leaving inscriptions that remain crucial historical records.
Naval Power & Trade Networks
The Satavahanas were instrumental in expanding maritime trade, connecting the Deccan with the Roman Empire and Southeast Asia. Ports such as Sopara, Kalyan, and Dharanikota became bustling centers of international commerce, with Roman coins and goods providing tangible evidence of this exchange.
Enduring Legacy
By consolidating political power, fostering trade, and encouraging cultural pluralism, the Satavahanas laid the foundations of Deccan identity. Their influence on administration, art, and economic networks lasted long after their decline, shaping the trajectory of peninsular India for centuries.
The Satavahanas unified much of the Deccan under their rule, creating stability in a region that had fragmented after the Mauryas. Their most notable king, Gautamiputra Satakarni, secured decisive victories over the Sakas, Yavanas, and Pahlavas, restoring Deccan power and prestige.
Economic Growth
They presided over a flourishing agrarian and commercial economy, sustained by cotton cultivation and craft industries. Organized artisan guilds (of weavers, potters, metal workers) played a vital role in production and trade. The wide circulation of their lead, copper, and silver coins demonstrates their economic strength and administrative reach.
Cultural Patronage
The dynasty left an enduring mark on art and architecture, with monumental works at Amaravati, Karle, and Nashik. They supported Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism, encouraging a multi-religious culture. Literature in Prakritflourished, leaving inscriptions that remain crucial historical records.
Naval Power & Trade Networks
The Satavahanas were instrumental in expanding maritime trade, connecting the Deccan with the Roman Empire and Southeast Asia. Ports such as Sopara, Kalyan, and Dharanikota became bustling centers of international commerce, with Roman coins and goods providing tangible evidence of this exchange.
Enduring Legacy
By consolidating political power, fostering trade, and encouraging cultural pluralism, the Satavahanas laid the foundations of Deccan identity. Their influence on administration, art, and economic networks lasted long after their decline, shaping the trajectory of peninsular India for centuries.
9. Chronology and Dating
The chronology of the Satavahana dynasty is established through inscriptions, coin evidence, and synchronisms with contemporary rulers, especially the Western Kshatrapas.
Start of Satavahana Rule (c. 232 BCE)
The dynasty is considered to have begun around 232 BCE, shortly after the death of Ashoka of the Mauryan dynasty. Initially, the Satavahanas were feudatories of the Mauryas, declaring independence after Ashoka’s death (268–232 BCE).
Dating later rulers relies heavily on interactions with the Saka rulers. For instance, Gautamiputra Satakarni’s conquest of Nahapana is a pivotal chronological anchor:
Nahapana’s reign: c. 32–78 CE, determined from the Manmodi inscription, which records a donation in his 46th regnal year.
Gautamiputra Satakarni’s defeat of Nahapana: c. 78 CE, confirmed by over-struck coins found in the Jogalthembi Hoard and the Nasik inscription (Year 18), which notes the regrant of a village previously held by Nahapana’s family.
Saka Era and Chastana
Chastana (78–130 CE) of the Kardamaka dynasty replaced Nahapana’s Kshaharata line.
The Saka Era, beginning in 78 CE, aligns with Chaitra month and is traditionally observed on March 22 in the civil calendar.
Evidence from Roman and Greek sources, including the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea (c. 59–62 CE) and Pliny the Elder (c. 77 CE), confirms the presence of powerful Saka kingdoms controlling western India during this period.
The Andau Inscription dates Chastana to the 52nd year of his reign, during Emperor Hadrian’s rule (117–138 CE).Later Satavahana Rulers
Vashishtiputra Pulumavi (c. 84–120 CE): Coins over-struck by Rudradaman I (130–150 CE) attest to conflicts with the Western Kshatrapas.
Vasisthiputra Sivasri Satakarni (c. 120–145 CE): Survived Rudradaman’s campaigns due to a marital alliance.
End of Satavahana Rule (c. 208 CE)
Nahapana’s reign: c. 32–78 CE, determined from the Manmodi inscription, which records a donation in his 46th regnal year.
Gautamiputra Satakarni’s defeat of Nahapana: c. 78 CE, confirmed by over-struck coins found in the Jogalthembi Hoard and the Nasik inscription (Year 18), which notes the regrant of a village previously held by Nahapana’s family.
Saka Era and Chastana
Chastana (78–130 CE) of the Kardamaka dynasty replaced Nahapana’s Kshaharata line.
The Saka Era, beginning in 78 CE, aligns with Chaitra month and is traditionally observed on March 22 in the civil calendar.
Evidence from Roman and Greek sources, including the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea (c. 59–62 CE) and Pliny the Elder (c. 77 CE), confirms the presence of powerful Saka kingdoms controlling western India during this period.
The Andau Inscription dates Chastana to the 52nd year of his reign, during Emperor Hadrian’s rule (117–138 CE).Later Satavahana Rulers
Vashishtiputra Pulumavi (c. 84–120 CE): Coins over-struck by Rudradaman I (130–150 CE) attest to conflicts with the Western Kshatrapas.
Vasisthiputra Sivasri Satakarni (c. 120–145 CE): Survived Rudradaman’s campaigns due to a marital alliance.
End of Satavahana Rule (c. 208 CE)
The Rentala Inscription, dated to the 5th regnal year of Mathariputra Sri Pulumavi, refers to the "vijaya-saṃvachare" (victory year). Analysis of the 60-year Jovian cycle places this victory year in 213–214 CE, indicating Pulumavi’s accession around 208–209 CE.
Notes on Interpretation
Some inscriptions, such as the donation by Ayama (minister of Mahārathi Sivagupta), mention “khaṃdasiri vasar(e) 46”, which has led to debate over whether it refers to 46 regnal years or 46 Saka years.
10. Successor States/Vassals
Ikshvakus (east), Abhiras (west), Chutus (south), Vakatakas, Pallavas (Kanchipuram), Western Satraps (northwest).
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/107159028.cms?utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst
Some Early Dynasties of South India By Sudhakar Chattopadhyaya
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satavahana_dynasty
http://asiasworld.net/india/royal-dynasties-in-india/satavahana-dynasty/index.cfm
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