Post-Mauryan Empires: Shunga, Kanva, Satavahana, Chedi Dynasties

The period immediately following the collapse of the mighty Mauryan Empire in 185 BCE is often referred to as the Post-Mauryan period. This era, lasting until around 300 CE, witnessed the rise and fall of several significant regional powers that shaped the political, social, and cultural landscape of ancient India. Understanding these successor states, such as the Shungas, Kanvas, Satavahanas, and Chedis, is crucial for competitive exam aspirants, as questions frequently appear on their administration, cultural contributions, and key rulers.

Key Facts / Overview

Detailed Explanation

The Shunga Dynasty (c. 185 – 73 BCE)

The Shunga Dynasty marked the immediate aftermath of the Mauryan Empire’s decline. It was founded by Pushyamitra Shunga, a Brahmin general who assassinated the last Mauryan emperor, Brihadratha, in 185 BCE. The dynasty’s capital was Pataliputra, and its influence primarily extended over Magadha and parts of central India.

• Origin and Rise: Pushyamitra Shunga, a Brahmin by caste, is often seen as a champion of Brahmanism against the Buddhist leanings of the later Mauryas. He performed two Ashvamedha Yajnas (horse sacrifices) to assert his imperial power, traditionally overseen by Patanjali, the grammarian.
• Territory: The Shunga kingdom was considerably smaller than the Mauryan Empire, primarily encompassing Magadha, parts of Malwa, and some areas of Uttar Pradesh.
• Cultural Contributions: The Shunga period is significant for the revival of Brahmanical traditions. However, it also witnessed continued patronage of Buddhist art and architecture. The famous Bharhut Stupa and parts of the Sanchi Stupa railings were built or renovated during this period. Sanskrit literature also flourished, with works like the Mahabhashya by Patanjali.
• Decline: The dynasty gradually weakened due to internal dissent and external pressures from the Indo-Greeks. The last Shunga ruler, Devabhuti, was assassinated by his minister Vasudeva Kanva.

The Kanva Dynasty (c. 73 – 28 BCE)

The Kanva Dynasty succeeded the Shungas, but its reign was even shorter and less impactful. Founded by Vasudeva Kanva, a minister of the last Shunga king, it lasted for only about 45 years.

• Brief Rule: The Kanvas continued the Brahmanical policies of the Shungas but had a very limited territorial control, primarily confined to Magadha.
• Succession: There were four Kanva rulers: Vasudeva, Bhumimitra, Narayana, and Susarman.
• Fall: The Kanva dynasty was eventually overthrown by the Satavahanas in the Deccan and other local powers in north India, marking the end of Magadha’s prominence for a considerable period.

The Satavahana Dynasty (c. 1st Century BCE – 3rd Century CE)

The Satavahanas were one of the most enduring and significant Post-Mauryan dynasties, primarily ruling the Deccan region. Their empire stretched across modern-day Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and parts of Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh.

• Origin and Expansion: The Satavahanas are believed to have emerged in the Deccan after the decline of the Mauryas. Simuka is considered the founder of the dynasty. Their power reached its zenith under Gautamiputra Satakarni (c. 106-130 CE), who recovered territories from the Shakas and revitalized the empire.
• Administration: The Satavahanas had a decentralized administration, with feudatories called ‘Maharathis’ and ‘Mahabhojas’. Their society was relatively advanced, with a strong emphasis on trade and urban centers.
• Economy: They controlled important trade routes connecting the northern and southern parts of India, as well as maritime trade with the Roman Empire. This led to significant economic prosperity, evidenced by their extensive coinage, including lead, potin, and copper coins.
• Culture and Religion: The Satavahanas were patrons of both Brahmanism and Buddhism. They built numerous chaityas (prayer halls) and viharas (monasteries), notably at Karle, Nashik, and Amaravati. The official language was Prakrit, and King Hāla is credited with compiling the Gathasaptashati, a collection of Prakrit poems.
• Art and Architecture: Their rock-cut architecture, especially the Chaitya at Karle and the Great Stupa at Amaravati, represents a distinct phase of Indian art.
• Decline: The dynasty declined by the 3rd century CE, fragmenting into several smaller states like the Ikshvakus and Abhiras.

The Chedi Dynasty of Kalinga (Mahameghavahana Dynasty) (c. 2nd – 1st Century BCE)

The Chedi Dynasty, also known as the Mahameghavahana dynasty, rose to prominence in Kalinga (modern-day Odisha) during the Post-Mauryan period. Its most famous ruler was Kharavela.

• Kharavela: Kharavela is known through his famous Hathigumpha inscription located in the Udayagiri hills near Bhubaneswar. This inscription provides a detailed account of his life, military campaigns, and administrative achievements.
• Jain Patronage: Kharavela was a devout follower and patron of Jainism. The inscription mentions his efforts to restore Jain images and build Jain temples.
• Military Campaigns: The inscription details his numerous military victories, including campaigns against the Satavahanas, Magadha, and other northern kingdoms, asserting Kalinga’s independence and power.
• Public Works: He undertook various public works, such as the construction of irrigation canals and restoration of old structures.
• Decline: After Kharavela, the dynasty’s power seems to have waned, and its history becomes obscure.

Important Points to Remember

• The Post-Mauryan period saw the rise of regional powers after the centralization of the Mauryan Empire.
• Pushyamitra Shunga founded the Shunga dynasty after assassinating the last Mauryan emperor, Brihadratha.
• The Shungas are noted for the revival of Brahmanical influence and the construction of Buddhist stupas like Bharhut.
• The Kanva dynasty was a short-lived successor to the Shungas in Magadha.
• The Satavahanas were a powerful dynasty in the Deccan, known for extensive trade, coinage, and patronage of both Brahmanism and Buddhism.
• Gautamiputra Satakarni was the most celebrated Satavahana ruler.
• The Chedi dynasty of Kalinga, under King Kharavela, was a significant regional power known for its patronage of Jainism and recorded history in the Hathigumpha inscription.
• Prakrit was a prominent language during the Satavahana period, with literary works like Gathasaptashati.

Related Previous Year Question Pattern

1. Which of the following dynasties immediately succeeded the Mauryan Empire in Magadha? A) Satavahana B) Shunga C) Kanva D) Gupta
2. The Hathigumpha inscription is associated with which of the following rulers? A) Pushyamitra Shunga B) Gautamiputra Satakarni C) Kharavela D) Simuka
3. Consider the following statements regarding the Satavahanas: 1. They primarily ruled the Deccan region. 2. They were known for their extensive maritime trade. 3. They exclusively patronized Buddhism. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) 1 only B) 1 and 2 only C) 2 and 3 only D) 1, 2 and 3

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened after the decline of the Mauryan Empire?

After the decline of the Mauryan Empire, India fragmented into several regional powers. In the north, the Shungas and then the Kanvas succeeded in Magadha, while in the Deccan, the Satavahanas rose to prominence. The Chedis established a powerful kingdom in Kalinga (Odisha), and various Indo-Greek, Shaka, and Kushan invaders also impacted the subcontinent.

Who was Pushyamitra Shunga?

Pushyamitra Shunga was the founder of the Shunga Dynasty. He was a Brahmin general who assassinated the last Mauryan emperor, Brihadratha, in 185 BCE, and established his rule over Magadha. He is known for performing Ashvamedha Yajnas and for the revival of Brahmanical influence.

What is the significance of the Satavahana Dynasty?

The Satavahana Dynasty was significant for its long rule in the Deccan, promoting extensive trade (including maritime trade with Rome), developing unique coinage, and patronizing both Brahmanism and Buddhism. Their period saw the flourishing of rock-cut architecture like the Karle Chaitya and the Amaravati Stupa.

Who was King Kharavela and why is he important?

King Kharavela was the most powerful ruler of the Chedi (Mahameghavahana) Dynasty of Kalinga. He is important for his detailed Hathigumpha inscription, which provides valuable historical information about his life, military conquests, and his strong patronage of Jainism.

What was the cultural impact of the Post-Mauryan dynasties?

The Post-Mauryan dynasties had a profound cultural impact. The Shungas revived Brahmanical rituals and Sanskrit literature, while also continuing Buddhist artistic traditions. The Satavahanas fostered a syncretic culture, supporting both major religions and developing distinctive art and architecture. The Chedis, under Kharavela, were strong proponents of Jainism. This period also saw significant advancements in trade, urbanization, and regional artistic styles.

How long did the Kanva dynasty rule?

The Kanva dynasty had a relatively short reign, lasting for approximately 45 years, from around 73 BCE to 28 BCE, primarily confined to the Magadha region.

Which language was prominent during the Satavahana period?

During the Satavahana period, Prakrit was the prominent official and literary language, particularly its regional variant called Maharashtri Prakrit. King Hāla’s Gathasaptashati is a famous collection of poems in Prakrit from this era.