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Post-Mauryan Period: Sungas, Satavahanas, and Foreign Invasions
July 19, 20264 min read
Post-Mauryan Period: Sungas, Satavahanas, and Foreign Invasions
Introduction
The post-Mauryan period (c. 200 BCE - 300 CE) was characterized by political fragmentation, foreign incursions, and vibrant cultural and trade activities. The decline of the Mauryan Empire led to the emergence of indigenous dynasties (Sungas, Kanvas, Satavahanas) and the influx of Central Asian and Greek rulers (Indo-Greeks, Shakas, Parthians, Kushans).
Indigenous Dynasties
Sunga Dynasty (185-73 BCE)
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Founder | Pushyamitra Sunga (overthrew last Mauryan ruler, Brihadratha) |
| Capital | Pataliputra |
| Extent | Magadha, eastern UP, parts of central India |
| Religion | Revived Brahmanical Hinduism (Rajasuya and Ashvamedha sacrifices) |
| Art & Culture | Bharhut Stupa, Sanchi Stupa (gateways/toranas), Patanjali's Mahabhashya |
| Conflict | Wars with Indo-Greeks (Menander's invasion repelled); conflicts with Satavahanas and Kalinga |
Kanva Dynasty (73-28 BCE)
- Founded by Vasudeva Kanva after ousting last Sunga ruler
- Brief rule (4 kings) over Magadha
- Overthrown by Satavahanas
Satavahana Dynasty (c. 230 BCE - 220 CE)
| Aspect |
|---|
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