Introduction
After the decline of the Mauryan Empire, India witnessed the rise of regional kingdoms across the subcontinent. These kingdoms preserved and developed political, cultural, and economic systems, laying the foundation for classical Indian civilization. Prominent dynasties include the Shungas, Satavahanas, Kushanas, Indo-Greeks, and Western Kshatrapas.
1. Shunga Dynasty (c. 185 – 73 BCE)
Origin & Ruler:
- Founded by Pushyamitra Shunga, a Mauryan general who assassinated the last Mauryan ruler.
Territory:
- Mainly Magadha and surrounding regions.
Administration:
- Centralized monarchy with regional governors.
- Maintained law and order; relied on military for stability.
Society & Religion:
- Hindu revival after Mauryan patronage of Buddhism.
- Patronage of Brahmanical religion, temples, and Vedic rituals.
Art & Culture:
- Stupas, temples, and sculptures developed during this period.
- Example: Heliodorus pillar (Vidisha) showing Indo-Greek influence.
Significance:
- Preservation of Brahmanical traditions.
- Strengthened northern India politically after Mauryan decline.
2. Satavahana Dynasty (c. 1st century BCE – 3rd century CE)
Origin & Territory:
- Based in Deccan region (Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh).
- Acted as a bridge between North and South India.
Administration:
- Centralized monarchy with provincial governors.
- Efficient taxation and revenue system to support trade.
Economy & Trade:
- Agriculture-based economy.
- Trade flourished with Rome, Southeast Asia, and other Indian kingdoms.
- Known for coins, inscriptions, and trade guilds (shrenis).
Religion & Culture:
- Patronized Buddhism and Brahmanism.
- Built stupas, viharas, and early cave temples (e.g., Ajanta & Karla caves).
- Promoted Sanskrit and Prakrit literature.
Significance:
- Maintained cultural continuity in South India.
- Promoted trade, arts, and Buddhist architecture.
3. Kushan Empire (c. 1st – 3rd century CE)
Origin & Territory:
- Founded by Kanishka the Great, from the Yuezhi tribe (Central Asia).
- Territory included North India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Central Asia.
Administration & Society:
- Centralized administration; provincial divisions.
- Multi-ethnic and multicultural society.
Religion & Culture:
- Promoted Buddhism, especially Mahayana Buddhism.
- Built stupas (e.g., Sanchi) and monasteries.
- Coins depicted Hellenistic, Iranian, and Indian deities.
Economy & Trade:
- Active trade via Silk Road, both inland and maritime.
- Agriculture, crafts, and coinage flourished.
Significance:
- Spread Buddhism to Central Asia and China.
- Known for artistic syncretism – Greco-Buddhist art of Gandhara.
4. Indo-Greek Kingdoms (c. 2nd century BCE – 1st century CE)
- Successors of Alexander’s invasions in northwest India.
- Known for Greek-style art, coins, and Hellenistic cultural influence.
- Contributed to urban planning, trade, and cultural exchange.
5. Western Kshatrapas / Satraps
- Successors of Indo-Scythians in western India.
- Controlled Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Malwa regions.
- Known for coins, inscriptions, and forts.
Significance of the Post-Mauryan Period
Laid foundations for later Gupta Empire and classical Indian civilization.
Ensured political continuity in fragmented India.
Promoted cultural and religious developments, especially Buddhism and Brahmanism.
Trade, urbanization, and artistic expression flourished.