Gundaram Inscription | Satavahanas

Gundaram inscriptions in Telangana’s Peddapalli shed light on Satavahana era

  • 11 inscriptions found in Gundaram Reserve Forest, Telangana, offering valuable insights into early Deccan’s political and cultural landscape (1st century BCE – 6th century CE).
  • Hāritiputra Inscription: Written in early Brahmi script, this suggests a political alliance between the Satavahana and Chutu dynasties.
  • Trident & Damaru Inscription: Earliest known religious iconography in South India, indicating an early link between political authority and religious symbols.
  • Also Known As – The Andhras
  • Successors of the Mauryas in the Deccan region (modern Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Maharashtra).
  • Key Rulers –
    • Simuka: Founder of the dynasty, overthrew the Kanva dynasty.
    • Gautamiputra Satakarni: Most powerful ruler; defeated the Shakas (Western Satraps) and consolidated Satavahana authority. His reign is well-documented in Nasik & Nanaghad inscriptions.
    • Hala: Known for his literary work, Gathasaptasati (written in Prakrit).
  • Unique Features of Satavahanas –
    • Matronymic Naming: Many rulers used their mother’s name in their titles.
    • Coinage Innovation: Among the first Indian dynasties to issue coins featuring ruler portraits.

Source: TH


Previous Year Question

In which of the following relief sculpture inscriptions is ‘Ranyo Ashoka’ (King Ashoka) mentioned along with the stone portrait of Ashoka?

[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2019 Prelims]

(a) Kanganahalli
(b) Sanchi
(c) Shahbazagrhi
(d) Sohgaura

Answer: (a)


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