Ancient India Test - 8

Satavahana had been the most important kingdom in Deccan and Central India after the Mauryas. Satavahana was the first large kingdom of central India. The Satavahana rule is believed to have started around the third century BC, in 235 BC, and lasted until the second century AD. The founder of the Satavahana dynasty was Simuka. He and his successors established their authority from the mouth of the Krishna to the entire Deccan Plateau. According to the Puranas, the Satavahana king killed the last Kanva ruler of Magadha and presumably took possession of his kingdom.

The Satavahana kingdom chiefly comprised modern-day Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Maharashtra. At times, their rule also included parts of Karnataka, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. Their capital cities varied at different times. Pratishthana (Paithan) and Amaravati were its capitals.

Bimbisara was a king of Magadha during the late 5th century BC and belonged to the Haryanka dynasty. He was the son of Bhattiya. He is also known for his cultural achievements and was a great friend and protector of the Buddha. Bimbisara, according to Hiuen Tsang, built the city of Rajgir, which is famous in Buddhist writings.

The Saka ruler, Rudradraman was responsible for important irrigation works in Saurashtra. His military achievements, his territories and his many personal qualities are highlighted in the famous Junagadh inscription, written in 150 AD. It is the first major inscription to be written in Sanskrit.

Chandragupta Maurya was the founder of the Maurya Empire in ancient India. He was picked up, taught, and counselled by Chanakya, who is identified as the author of the Arthashastra. Chandragupta built one of the largest empires ever on the Indian subcontinent. He is considered as the first national ruler of India.