Satavahana

The Satavahana dynasty was an ancient Indian kingdom that existed from the 2nd century BCE to the 2nd century CE. The name 'Satavahana' is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Satavahana', which means 'the one who has a hundred sacrifices'. The dynasty was known for its campaigns against the Mauryan Empire and its subsequent rise to power.

The Satavahanas were a Brahmin clan who ruled over a large territory in western and central India. Their empire was divided into two main parts: Andhra, also known as Daksina Kosala (present-day Andhra Pradesh and parts of Telangana), and the Dakshinapatha, which includes parts of present-day Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh. The capital of the Satavahana dynasty was Junagadha (present-day Junagadh in Gujarat), and later on, the capital was moved to Pratishthana (present-day Prathishthana in Maharashtra).

The Satavahanas were patrons of Buddhism and promoted the spread of Buddhism in South India. They were also known for their art, architecture, and trade, which flourished under their rule. The Satavahana coinage system is an important area of study in numismatics. They issued coins featuring a range of rulers and their anatomical depictions, which provide valuable insights into their culture and society.

The Satavahana dynasty declined in the 2nd century CE, and their empire was eventually absorbed into the Gupta Empire. The legacy of the Satavahanas can be seen in the many monuments, inscriptions, and coins that remain from their era.