Write about Kunthala Satakarni

Write about Kunthala Satakarni Kunthala Satakarni is a Satavahana dynasty king ruled between 52B.C. – 44 B.C. Famous author Vastayana was the court poet of Kuntala Shatakarni. Vatsayana authored ‘Nyaya Bhashyam’ and ‘KaamaSutra’. Panchagunnala Aadi Narayana Shastry translated ‘KamaSuthra’ into Telugu. This book is also a good source to know the social conditions of Satavahana dynasty. Karthari copulating style was reason for Kunthala Shatakarni’s wife Malayavathi’s death. Malayavathi suggested Kunthala Satakarni to replace Prakrit with Sankrit, as State language. Sharva Varma, Gunadya and Somadeva Suri also patronized by Kunthala Satakarni. Sharva Varma authored ‘Kathanthrya Vyakarana’ in Paishachi Prakrit language. Gunadya authored Brihathkatha. Somadeva Suri was the author of ‘Katha Saritsaagara’. Kathaa Saritsaagaram also gives details about dispute between Gunadya and Sharva Varma.

Write about Periplus of the Erythrian Sea? / Write about the Red Sea Dairy

Write about Periplus of the Erythrian Sea? / Write about the Red Sea Dairy The Periplus of the Erythraen Sea, written by an anonymous Greek navigator, gives details of Indian exports to the Roman Empire. The main exports were: pepper, pearls, ivory, silk, spike-nard, malabathrum, diamonds, saffron, precious stone and tortoise shell.   The author of the Periplus of the Erythrean Sea (75 A.D.) gives the most valuable information about the trade between India and the Roman Empire. He mentions the port of Naura (Cannanore) Tyndis (Tondi), Muzuris (Musiri, Cranganore), and Nelcynda as the leading ones on the west coast.   It also mentions Argaru (Uraiyur) as the place to which were sent all the pearls gathered on the coast and from which were exported muslins called agraritic. Silk, which was supplied by Indian merchants to the Roman Empire, was considered so important that the Roman emperor Aurelian declared it to be worth its weight in gold.   The Roman need for spices could not be met entirely by local supply; this brought Indian traders into contact with south-east Asia. In return for her exports, India imported from the Roman empire such commodities as topaz, tin cloth, linen, antimony, crude glass, copper, tin, lead, wine, orpiment and wheat. The Romans also exported to India wine amphorae and red glazed Arretine ware which have been found at Arikamedu near Pondicherry. They also sent to India a large number of gold and silver coins.

Details about Amaravathi Sthupa

Details about Amaravathi Sthupa Sthoopas are three types. The monuments constructed on the relics of Buddha are called Sthupas. Sthupa is a semi spherical structure. Colin Mackenzie discovered Amaravthi Sthupa in 1797. It is a brick construction. It is of 43ft circumference and 100ft height. It has 4 entrances on four sides in different directions. We can see 5 pillars at each entrance, on the dais. Five important events of Buddha are depicted on this sthupa. We can see Elephant and Lotus (which symbolizes the birth of Buddha), Horse (as symbol of Buddha’s Great Renunciation), Bodhi tree, (symbol of Buddha’s enlightenment), 8 Spokes Wheel (as a symbol of Buddha’s first sermon), and Sthupa, (symbolises Buddha’s leaving his body). Amaravathi sthupa is the most important one among Buddhist sthupas in India.

Write about Amaravathi style of Architecture?

Write about Amaravathi style of Architecture? The elements of Amaravathi style of architecture are first seen in Sanchi sthupa. This architectural style reached to the zenith in Amaravathi stupa. Civilized life is depicted in Amaravathi style of architecture. Amaravathi was a place which was centre for a unique architectural style. Amaravthi is located 32kilometres away from Guntur. It is located on the banks of river Krishna. Mahadeva, a Buddhist saint sent to south by Ashoka, made Amaravathi his as centre. Amaravthi style of architecture was widespread in south India and South East Asian countries. Gudimallam temple is located near Renigunta, in Chittor district. Gudimallam is the most ancient Shiva temple. It was build based on Amaravathi style of architecture.  

Give a brief account of Shanthamoola I

Give a brief account of Shanthamoola I Vasistee puthra Shantha Moola ruled from 220 A.D. to 233 A.D. He was the founder of independent Ekswaka dynasty. Vasistee puthra Shantha Moola’s title was ‘Mahaaraaja’. With the help of Pugiyas and Hiranyakas Vasistee puthra Shantha moola dethroned Satavahana king Pulomavi IV and established independed Ekshawaka kingdoms. Telangana, Coastal Andhra regions were parts of his kingdom. His inscriptions are found at Rentala and Keshanapalli. Nagarjuna Konda inscriptions – by Veera purusha Datta. S/o VP Shantha moola. Eulogical inscription about VP Shantha moola. In this inscription VP Shantha moola is praised as “Aveka go hala shatha sahastra pada isha” – means the one who donated lakhs of gold coins, thousands of cows, oxen, ploughs and land. On Shanthamoola’s memorial pillar, Shanthamoola is seen performing Angnisthoma sacrament, tonsured, and wearing a deer skin, with a staff in his hand and without foot wear. One servant is seen holding a water bowl. One of the 5 Brahmins is accepting donation with his right hand. Harmyasri and Shanthi sri are the sisters of Shanthamoola. Both praised his greatness in their inscriptions. Shanthamoola performed Ashwmedha, Agnishtoma, Agnihotra, and Vajapeya sacrifices. In Nagarjuna konda excavations Ashwamedha fire altar was discovered. Matrimonial alliances with Poogiya and Dhanika dynasties. Shanthisri married Maha Skandasri of Poogiya dynasty. Maha Skandasri was mahatalavara, Maha Senapathi. Skanda Sagara was the son of Shanthisri and Maha Skandasri. Shanthisri titles – 1. Mahathalavarini, Mahaadaanapathni. Adavi Shanthisri – D/o Vaashistee puthra Shanthamoola. Adavi Shanthisri married Skanda Vishakha Naga of Dhanika dynasty. Skanda Vishakha Naga was Mahasenapathi, Mahaa dandanaayaka. Shaanthamoola was the follower of Vedic religion. According to inscriptions he worshipped Ujjain Maha Skanda Karthikeya (Mahaa Sena). Shanthi sri and Harmyasri followed Buddhism.

Write about Maatariputhra Veerapurusha Datta

Write about Maatariputhra Veerapurusha Datta? Maataree Puthra Sree Veera Purusha Datta 233 A.D. – 253 A.D. S/o Shanthamoola. His inscriptions are found at Nagarjuna konda, Jaggaiah peta, Uppugundooru, and Alluru. Greatest among the Ekshwakas. Made matrimonial alliances with the contemporary rulers and established stability. Acc. Nagarjuna konda inscription he had 5 wives.

1. Daughter of Shanthisri.

2 and 3. Bapisri and Shashtisri – D/o Harmyasri.

4. Rudhra Bhattarika. Princess of Saka Kshathrapa. Descendant of Chastana.
5. Mahaadevi Bhattideva.

Kodabalisri – Only daughter of Maatari puthra Shree veera purusha datta. According to Kodabalisri inscription – She was married to Vishnu Rudra Shivalaananda Shaathakarni of Chutu dynasty, Kunthala kingdom. (Banavasi = Vaijayanthi) This inscription was issued in the 11th regnal year of Ehuvala Sri Shaanthamoola. In the beginning Maataree puthra Veera purusha Datta was the follower of Vedic religion. Later he embraced Buddhism. Maataree puthra Veera purusha Datta’s reign is a golden period for Buddhists. In one of the statues of Nagarjuna konda, a person is seen stamping shiva linga. It is not of Veerapurusha Datta’s statue. It is a part of Maandhaatha Jaathaka. Shanthi sri, maternal aunt of Veera purusha datta, constructed a Dhaathugarbha mahaa chaithya at Nagarjuna konda in the 6th regnal year of Veerapurusha datta. She wished the well being of Brahmins, Sramanas and all the subjects. In the 18th regnal year of Maataree puthra Veera purusha Datta, she issued another inscription wishing the well being of her nephew, Maataree puthra Veera purusha Datta. Due to Shanthisri , Ekshwaka kings and queens patronized Buddhism.

Write about Vaasistee Puthra Bahubala Shaanthamoola or Shanthamoola II

Write about Vaasistee Puthra Bahubala Shaanthamoola or Shanthamoola II Vaasistee Puthra Bahubala Shaanthamoola was also known as Shanthamoola –II. He was son of Maataree puthra Veera purusha Datta and Mahadevi Vaasistee Battideva. Ekshwakas started the tradition of giving grandfather name to grandson. Later this tradition is followed by Gupthas, Vakatakas, Pallavas, Vishnukundins, and Shalankayans. Ehuvala Shanthaamoola’s inscriptions are found in Nagarjuna Konda excavations. Elisri – Military general of Ehuvala Shaanthamoola. Ehuvala Shaanthamoola waged a war before his 11th regnal year. Elisri constructed a city named Eleshwaram. Elisri constructed a Shivite temple named – Sarvadevalaya. By this time Sanskrit attained the status of official language in his kingdom. Ehuvala Shaanthamoola was the follower of Vedic religion. Devotee of Mahaasena. Kaarthikeya, Pushpa Bhadra Swamy, Nodi gireeshwara Swamy, Devi temples were constructed in Nagarjuna konda.

Give a clear picture of istory of Ekshvakas

Give a clear picture of history of Ekshvakas On the ruins of Satavahana Empire various kingdoms emerged. Chutu Satakarni Kingdom- © Banavasi/ Vaijayanthi in Karnataka. Abhiras – Konkan, Aparantha. – in Maharashtra. Ekshwakas – © Vijayapuri / Nagarjuna Sagar. In Telangana and Coastal Andhra. Ekshwakas ruled from 220 A.D. to 330 A.D. This is upto the emergence of Vengi/ Eastern Chalukya. Ekshwakas coin are found in: Andhra – Krishna, Guntur, Kurnool, Prakasham districts. Telangana – Nalgonda, Khammam, Mahaboob Nagar. As Satavahana king Vijaya Satakarni’s coins are found in this place, this place came to be called as Vijayapuri. Ekshwakas royal emblem – Lion. During the Ekshwakas reign Nagarjuna konda / Vijayapuri flourished as Buddhist centre as well as centre for education. Sources: Archaeological Sources:- Coins, Monuments, Sculpture. Ekshwakas coins are found at – Nagarjuna konda, Phanigiri, Nelakondapalli, Vaddemanu (Mahaboobnagar dist.), Eleshwara in Nalgonda district. This indicated the extent of their kingdom. Inscriptions are found at Nagarjuna Konda, Jaggaiah peta (Krishna dist.), Ramireddy palli, Phanigiri etc. Inscriptions are in Prakrit language and Brahmi script. From the period of Ehuvala Shanthamoola these inscriptions came to be written in Sanskrit.

1. Mahasthoopa inscriptions 2. Chaithya Gruha inscriptions
2. Differentiated Pillar inscriptions ` 4. Inscriptions of sculpture.

Ekshwakas coins are lesser in number when compared to Satavahana coins. Ekhswakas did not issue gold and silver coins. In Nagarjuna konda, 148 Satavahana coins are found. This proves that during Satavahana period itself Nagarjuna Konda was an important place. Roman emperors’ and queens’ coins are found at Nagarjuna konda. In Nagarjuna Konda – Tiberius Hedriyan, Fastena queen coins were found. In Eleshwaram – Sestimus Severs etc Roman emperors’ coin were found.   Buddhists Chaithyas, Sthupas, Greatways (thoranas) were found at nagarjuna Konda, Ramireddy Palli, Nelakondapalli, Phanigiri, Anupu are helping us to know about the religion and social conditions of the Ekshwakas. They also help us to know about the contemporary rulers. In the excavations undertook at Nagarjuna konda, Ekshwaku period (3^rd century A.D.) forts, Buddhist sthupas, Viharas, Chaithyas, Aramas, temples, bathing ghats were found. 1926 – A. Ranganatha Sastri, a Telugu assistant in Archaeological department for the first time identified the archaeological remains at Nagarjuna konda. 1938 – H.N. Longston, and B.N. Ramachandran started excavations at Nagarjuna Sagar. 1954- Under the leadership of Rayaprolu Subbarao, excavations were carried on large scale. The sculpture, coins, inscriptions and other things which are unearthed in the excavations are moved to Nagarjuna Konda and Anupu. Birth Place of Ekshwakas: Ekshwakas were Andhra Bruthyas- Andhra Bruthyas= Andhras’ servants. Ekshwakas worked under Satavahanas as Mahatalavaras, Maha Senadhipathis. Ekshwakus imitated Satavahanas in adding mothers’ names to their names. Ekshwakas names start with ‘Skanda’ and end with ‘Anaka’. According to Vayupurana – Ekshwaku was head of Solar lineage. Ekshwaku was eldest among 9 sons of Manu. He ruled Ayodhya as his capital. He had 100 sons. Vikakshi was eldest on among them. Vikakshi succeeded his father to the throne. 50 sons of Ekshwaku established small kingdoms in North India and remaing 49 sons established small kingdoms in South India. Law giver Bauddhayana mentioned that South Indians has the tradition of marrying their niece. We don’t find this tradition in North India. Veerapurusha Dutta married daughters of his 2 maternal aunts. Based on this fact historians came to a conclusion that Ekshwakus belong to South India. Ekshwakas belong to Dravidian lineage Ekshwakas are Kannadigas_ Sten Kono, Vogel. Ekshwakas are Tamilians_ K. Rajagopalachary. Ekshwakas migrated from Kosala. _ Rapson, Bular. Dharmamrutha, a Kannada text mentions that Yashodhara, King of Anga kingdom, came to south India and established a kingdom near river Krishna, Battiprolu (Prathipalapuram) as its capital. Ekswakas are native Andhras. _ Bishap Coldwell. Ekshwakas are the ancient Andhra, with ‘Ikshu’ as their emblem.   Origin of Ekshwakas Puranas mentioned Ekshwakas as Sri Parvatheeyas, Andhra Bruthyas, Sri Parvatheeyandhras. K.P. Jaiswal also concluded that Ekshwakas, Sriparvathiyas, Andhrabrithyas are same. According to Puranas and Buddhist sources, Nagarjuna konda to Srisailam hilly areas are Sriparvatha region. According to Jaggaiah peta inscription and the inscriptions found at Nagarjuna Sagar, Sri Shanthamula is Eshwaka king and his capital in Vijayapuri, which is located on the western side of Nagarjuna Sagar. In 3^rd and 4^th centuries Sriparvatha was called as Vijayapuri. Like Satavahanas, Ekshwakas also added their mother name to their name. This tradition was ended with Eshwakas. Based on the usage of the words ‘Siri’ and ‘Sami’, we can come to a conclusion that Ekshawakas are Satavahanas’ feudatories. (Kodabalisiri, Shanthisiri, Hammasiri). Ekshwakas worked as ‘Mahatalavaras’ under Satavahanas. Date of Ekshwakas According to Matsya Purana – Sriparvatheeya 7 kings ruled for 52 yeas. (Dvipanchashatham). According to Phanigiri inscription Rudra Purusha Datta ruled for 18 years. According to D.C. Sarkar Ekshwakas ruled for 75 years. Based on Nagarjuna Konda inscription he came to the conclusion. Shantha Moola 220 A.D. – 233 A.D. Veera Purusha Datta – 233 A.D. – 253 A.D. Ehuvala Shanthamula – 253 A.D. – 277 A.D. Inter regnum of Abhira Vasusena – 277 A.D.(278) – 283 A.D. Rudra Purusha Datta – 283 A.D. – 301 A.D. Last Ekshwaka ruler. Based on the information found in the coins of Gurajala (Guntur dist.), Nagarjuna Konda, Phanigiri, and inscriptions, Rudra Purusha Datta was the last Ekshwaka king. S/o Ehuvala Shanthamoola. In his 4^th regnal year, a person named Noduka Sri donated some land to Halampura Swamy temple. This place is identified as Nagulapuram in Guntur. Abhira Vasusena inscription is found in Nagarjuna Sagar. This inscription was issued in the 30^th regnal year of Abhira Vasusena. According to this inscription – Shaka Rudradaman of Avanthi, Abhira Vasusena, Banavasi Chutu Vishnu Rudra Shivalananda Satakarni etc constructed Ashtabhuja Swami temple. But the contemporary Ekshwaka king name was not mentioned in this inscription. Acc. D.C. Sarkar, they might have defeated contemporary Ekshwaka king and installed the statue. Abhiras ruled Nagarjuna konda for few years.

Give a clear picture of history of Vishnukundins

Give a clear picture of history of Vishnukundins Vishnukunds have a primary place among the most important royal dynasties in the history Telugu country. They have not only spread the name and fame of the Telugu country far and wide, but have also introduced several new practices in the fields of religion, language and culture. Vishnukunds started their political stint on the bank of the river Krishna and extended their empire upto river Narmada. For some time they have controlled the land between the three seas, Arabian ocean, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean). Vishnukunds ruled for nearly 210 years. Amarapuram, Indrapala Nagaram / Sukrapuram, Dendaluru, Bezawada, and Purani Sangamam were Vishnukuds capitals. Amarapuram – A mandal in Mahabub Nagar district, Telangana. Indrapala Nagaram / Sukrapuram – located on the outskirts of Tummalagudem village in Valigonda mandal of Nalgonda district, Telangana. Dendluru- near Pedavegi, West Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh. Bezawada - Vijayawada, Andhra pradesh. Purani Sangamam – it could be either Sanganigundala in Amrabad mandal, or Sangameshwaram near Alampur mandal, Mahabub Nagar. Sources for the history of Vishnukunds: Inscriptions – 13 inscriptions issued during Vishnukund period. + 8 issued during later period. Vishnukund period inscriptions

1. Two Tummalagudem Copper plate inscriptions - @ Valigonda mandal, Nalgonda district. Telangana.
2. Chaithanyapuri stone inscription – Rangareddy district. Telangana.
3. Keesaragutta stone inscription – Keesaragutta.
4. Saleswaram stone inscription - Amarabad Mandal, Mahabub Nagar district. Telangana.
5. Velpuru stone inscription – Sattenapalli, Guntur district. Telangana.
6. 2 Ipur Copper plate inscriptions –Tenali, Guntur district, Telangana.
7. Ramatirtham copper plate inscription – Visakhapatnam district, Andhra Pradesh.
8. Chikkulla copper plate inscription – Tuni, East Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh.
9. Tundi copper plate inscription – Tuni, East Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh.
10. Polamuru copper plate inscription – Ramachandrapuram, East Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh.
11. Khanapur copper plate inscription – Satara district, Maharashtra.

  Coins: Coins found at – Yeleshwaram, Bhuvanagiri, Sultanabad (in Kareemnagar) in Telagnana. Bojjanna konda, Elamanchili (in Vishakhapatnam), Andhra Pradesh. Nasik, Kanhapur, and Nagpur in Maharashtra. Brahmagiri in Madhyapradesh. Internal trade was carried on in the places where the coins were found. Books: Janasraya Chando Vicchithi. Sethu Bandha. Archaeological remains: Fort walls, Cities, and Cave temples. Birth place: Vishnukunds called themselves as ‘Amarapurishwaras’ or ‘Lords of Amarapuram’. They also said that with the blessing obtained from the feet of the Sriparvatha Swami, they extended their kingdom on both sides of the Sriparvatha. Samudra Guptha was reason for their aggressive expansion. Samudra Guptha who waged wars from North to South and won many kingdoms, gave back the kingdoms to the respected kings on the condition that they should promote Hinduism. Vishnukunds favourism to Hinduism is evident from the Yagas they performed. They patronized Brahmins, donated Agraharas to them. Vishnukinds performed ‘Rajasuya’, ‘Ashwamedha’ and ‘Hiranya Garbha’ sacrifices. Munuluru, present day Munnanore, in Amrabad mandal, Mahabubnagar district, Mamidipuram is Amarapuram / Amrabad, Mahabub Nagar. The Umamaheshwara temple area, located nearby, became famous for mango groves, especillay for Thummeda Mango trees. Until two decades ago, there used to be a Mango tree at Uma Maheshwara Temple. The temple used to be under the mango tree. If the mangoes of this tree are broke open, bees used to come put. In this area, on the name of ‘Mamidi’ (Mango) these used to be some villages. Near Amrabad, there used to be a village called ‘Molaka Mamidi’. Mango in Sankrit is called as ‘Amram’ and bees as ‘Bhramaram’. In that way ‘Thummeda Mamidi’ became ‘Bhramaramram’. This word is also there in ‘Rasarathnakaram’ written by Nithyananda Siddha of 13th Century. Bhramaramram / Bhramarambha is the wife of Mallikarjuna at Srisailam. The prime diety Shiva temple is Srisailam is Mallikharjuna / ‘Lord Shiva’. An old idol of Lord Shiva made of Arjuna tree trunk / Maddhi tree trunk is there in the northern side of inner temple / sanctum / Garbha griha at Srisailam. The main deity came to be called as Mallikarjuna, as the lord Shiva idol made of Arjuna tree trunk was worshipped by Mallika / Jasmine flowers. Mallika + Arjuna = Mallikarjuna. There used to be a place named Mamidi vanam in present day Amrabad area. As the part of Sanskritisation, Mamidi vanam name was changed to Amrapuram / Amarapuram. Amarapuram is also the name of the prime God of early Vedic period, Lord Indra’s abode. Due to the impact of Vedic religion, they named their later capitals were named as Sakrapuram and Indrapala Nagaram. Vishnukund’s inscriptions mention that they have dug tanks and wells for the purpose of drinking water and irrigation. Many sources for the history of Vishnukundins appear in Amrabad and munnanur areas. Vishukunds’ sacrificial altar and bath place were found near an old temple at Prathapagirikota, near Munnanur. A village named Brahmanapalli was donated to Brahmins by Vishnukunds. This Brahmanapalli is located towards the north of the fort Prathapagirikota. The Brahmins of this village got performed thousand of sacrifices by Vishnukunds.   Political history of Vishnukunds

1. Indra Varma 358 A.D. – 370 A.D.
2. Madhava Varma 370 A.D. – 398 A.D.
3. Govinda Varma 398 A.D. – 440 A.D.
4. Madhava Varma II 440 A.D. – 496 A.D.
5. Deva Varma 495 A.D. – 496 A.D.
6. Madhava Varma III 496 A.D. – 510 A.D.
7. Vikramendra Varma 510 A.D. – 525 A.D.
8. Indrabhattaraka Varma II 525 A.D. – 555 A.D.
9. Vikramendra Varma II 555 A.D. – 569 A.D.
10. Manchana Bhattarak (no clarity about his exact ruling period, ruled around 570 A.D.)

Write about Madhava Varma II of Vishnukund dynasty

Write about Madhava Varma II of Vishnukund dynasty Madhava Varma II 440 A.D. – 495 A.D. Title – Janaashraya. Greatest among the Vishnukund kings was Madhava Varma. He fought and won more than 100 battles. As a mark of his victory in each battle, he installed a Shiva linga on Keesaragutta. He has also built Ramalingeshwara swami temple at every place where he won the battle. Even today these Ramalingeshwara temples built at Velpuru, Ipur, Indrapala Nagaram, and Keesaragutta are receiving acts of worship. Some of the victories of Madhava Varma II: Madhava Varma occupied Kalinga, with the help of Prabhakara, his relative and ruler of Gunapasa Puram. Madhava Varma defeated Pallavas in his 33^rd regnal year. Expanded upto Gundlakamma river. Madhava Varma defeated the last ruler of the main Vakataka line, Prithvisena and married his daughter VakatakaDevi. In the west, the Vakataka Kings of Maharashtra were very powerful. Vishnukunds and Pallavas wer always engaged in wars. Hence, in order to prevent the Pallava invasions, Madhava Varma II shifted capital to Denduluru pura, located near Vengi. He also raised the wall and strengthened the fort of Amarapuri, which was his 1^st capital. Deva Varma was Madhava Varma’s son. Deva Varma was appointed as the viceroy of Amarapuri. Extent of Mahava Varma’s kingdom. East –Bay of Bengal West – Arabian sea. North – Reva, Narmada river. South – Southern sea. May be Pulicat lake. One of Madhava Varma’s inscriptions was found in Maharashtra. Vishnukunds’ coins were found in all over Maharashtra. Title of Madhava Varma – Trivara nagara Bhavnagata sundari hridaya nandana. In order to announce his victories Madhava Varma had performed 11 Ashvamedha sacrifices, 16 Rajasuya sacrifices and thousand sacrifices such as Vajapeya, Purushamedha and others. This is mentioned in Vishnukund inscriptions. Even Gods have appreciated his judicial systems. Janashraya Chando vichhithi was authored by Madhava Varma II. It a book on Chandas / Metre. Many rulers, including Kakatiyas, considered him as the real founder of Vishnukund dynasty.

5. Vikramendra Varma I

Son and successor of Madhava Varma II. Title – Vishnukundi Vaakaataka Vamsha dwaya alankaara Janma. He got the title as he was son of Madhava Varma II and Vakataka devi. Title – Mahaakavi. As he was more interested in literary activity, his son Madhava Varma III proclaimed independence at Amarapuram.

6. Madhava Varma III

Madhava Varma III completely exterminated Kandaara / Andanda Gothrika dynasty. Title – Trikuta Malayaadhipa. After exterminating Kandaara dynasty, he took this title.

Give an account of Socio, political, economic, religious and cultural conditions of Vishnukundins period

Give an account of Socio, political, economic, religious and cultural conditions of Vishnukundins period Give an account of Socio, political, economic, religious and cultural conditions of Vishnukundins period? Or Give an account of Socio, political, economic, religious and cultural conditions of post Satavahana period? (Almost same administrative system for Satavahanas also) Vishnukund administration: Vishnukunds believed that by serving the feet of Sriparvatha swamy they came to power. They carved the name sri parvatha on their coins. This speaks about their humility and loyalty. Vishnukunds earned fame on account of proper and popular rule. Because of their proper life, monks, orphans, beggars, disease – ridden persons, distress persons etc., also used to earn in just manner. Extended protection to Brahmins and their employees. Unlimited belief in Brahmins. Brahmins were donated servants and servant maids, cots, chairs, travel equipments, food and water, buildings and jewellery. Girls were also donated. Madhava Varma always used to serve at the feet of his parents. From these, it could be understood that the Vishnukunds desired people’s welfare, and hence, people enjoyed comfort and happiness under their rule. After the Satavahanas, only Vishnukunds get the credit of ruling an extensive empire in the Deccan. For nearly 50 years, the States of Maharashtra, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh used to be under their rule. As they ruled such a vast empire, they assumed the title ‘Mahaaraaja’. Vishnukunds provided protection toall types of people. Vishnukunds’ titles were – Sakala Bhuvanaikasraya, Janasraya, Satyasraya, Uttamasraya and Vikramasraya. Accordingly later period Chalukyan rulers also wore the titles that end with ‘asraya’. Kakatiyas referred to Madhava Varma as their dynastic founder. The kings of Pithapuram and Velamas also mentioned the same thing in their records. Vishnukunds were known for their just rule. ‘Divyalu’ mean noble things. Madhava Varma considered the legal duties as Divyalu. When a chariot of a Prince has, due to un-mindfulness, gone over the son of a lady selling tamarind and the boy got killed, Madhava Varma has imposed death sentence for the Prince. Becoming happy over this, Malleeshwara Swami made the gold rain at Bezawada and gave life to the Prince and the son of a lady selling tamarind. This was found in the inscriptions. The same details are mentioned in later day literary works, Nachikethopaakhyanam, Prabhodha Chandrodayam, Panchatantram ,etc. In that way, Vishnukunds, by strength, truth and sacrifice and such good qualities, earned fame. In that way they displayed their splendor more thatn the Brahmins and Kshatriyas. Madhava Varma had the tile ‘Hiranyagarbha’. Vishnukuds were the first local Sudras of Telangana who performed Hiranyagarbha ceremony. In the Vishnukund kingdom, the king was all powerful and a despot. In administrative materials, his was the final decision. However, the king’s decisions were in accordance with the opinion and welfare of the people. Even the opinion of counsel of minsters were given due place in the king’s court. Sometimes, they even used to install the king on the throne it seems Madhava Varma has imposed death sentence to his son only after discussing the matter with the legal luminaries. Vishnukunds used to provide shelter to warriors and employees. Vishnukunds kingdom was divided into provinces. Administrative division of kingdom: Provinces – Vishayas – villages. Rashtra was governed by Rashtrika. Vishaya was governed by Vishayadhipathi. Provinces of Vishnukund kingdom: Paraki Rashtra, Plekki Rashtra, Karma Rashtra, and Kalinga Rashtra. Vishayas of Vishnukund kingdom: Grudhra nadi Vishaya, Netrapati (Nethravadi) etc. King’s son was appointed as Yuvaraja for some parts of the kingdom. Vishnukunds had feudatory states under their control. They made matrimonial alliances with the feudatories.   King was assisted by Yuvaraja, Mahaamathya, Amaathya, Intelligence Officer, Secret Adviser and such other officials. For the protection of kingdom, Vishnukunds constructed forts. The newly constructed forts were named in such a way that, the names gave meaning similar to Amarapuram, the first capital. Indrapala Nagaram in Ramannapet taluk, Nalgonda district. Indrakeeladri in Bezawada, (Viajayawada). Indur in Nizamabad. Indur and Keesaragutta were their local settlements. The Amarabad fort of Vishnukunds is the biggest fort in Telugu country. The length of the wall is around 200 Kilometers. The wall was constructed to protect the Vishnukund kingdom from Pallava invasions. Economic Development: Villages – self sufficient. Kings took steps for the development of agriculture. Brahmins were donated farmers, some servants and maid servants. Thus the agrahara lands were brought under cultivation. Dug many wells and canals. Nivarthana – land measuring unit. (like acres / hectares) Domestic and foreign trade. Coins found at – Yeleshwaram, Bhuvanagiri, Sultanabad (in Kareemnagar) in Telagnana. Bojjanna konda, Elamanchili (in Vishakhapatnam), Andhra Pradesh. Nasik, Kanhapur, and Nagpur in Maharashtra. Brahmagiri in Madhyapradesh. Trade: Internal trade was carried on in the places where the coins were found. Internal trade ports – Bejawada, Amaravathi, Motupalli, Ghantasala, Koduru, Alampuram-Kudalisangham and others on the banks of river Krishna. From these ports – Now and then foreign trade. External trade has grown after the occupation of Vengi from the Salankayanas and the kingdom of Kalinga. Ship mark on the coins. Madhava Varma II’s title – Trisamdradhipati. All these indicate importance of foreign trade. From eastern coast foreign trade with Burma, Siam, Cambodia, China, Japan, Ceylone, Sumatra, Java, Borneo, Malaya, Arkan and western countries, such as Egypt, Rome, Greece etc. Motupalli, and Kodur – Eastern ports. At Kudalisanghameshwaram near Alampur, a gold coins of Roman Emperor Constantine (306 A.D. – 337 A.D.) was found. This coin was found along with some other coins. Krishna –Thungabhadra doab region was centre for foreign trade and commerce even before the Vishnukunds and this continued even during the Vishnukund period. According to Fa-Hien, during the beginning decades of the 5^th century A.D., shells were also used as currency in the Vishnukund kingdom. According to Huantsang full size golden statues of Buddha were there at Sriparvatha. These statues were not found. But archaeologists found copper statues of Buddha at Buddham and Amaravathi. Size – 1 inch to 5 inches. A snuff box made of cast iron and in the shape of mango bud found at Keesaragutta. Size – 7 centimeters Economy of those times was strong. All sections of people lived happily. Vishnukund Society: Vishnukundin rulers adhered to Varnashrama Dharma. Govinda Varma respected Varnashrama Dharma. Gupthas were reason for it. Brahmins and Kshatriyas had greater respect. Vishnukund rulers took titles – ‘Parama Brahmanya’ and ‘Brahma Kshathra’. Hiranya garbha ceremony. Vaishyas were indulged in internal and external trade. Sudras – Carpenters, Sculptors, and handloom weavers and others. Purushmedha – Male persons were sacrificed. Slavery was there.. People revered their parents. Madhava Varma was best example. Vishnukund Culture Followed Vedic religion. Sriparvatha Swamy was their family deity. Their cities names resembled the name of abode of Indra, Amaravathi. Vishnukunds worshipped Lord Shiva. Built many Shiva temples. Keesaragutta temple was built by Vishnukunds. After every victory, Madhava Varma constructed a Ramalingeshwara temple. Titles – Parama Maheshwara (Worshipped Lord Shiva). Parama Brahmanya (Respected Brahmanical religion). In Samudra Guptha’s Allahabad inscription – ‘Prama bhattaraka pada nudjyatasya’ was found. In Vishnukund inscriptions – ‘Sri parvatha swami pada nudhyatsya’ = Worshipping the feet of Sriparvatha Swami. Parama Bhattaraka Devi – Name of wife of Govinda varma, Vishnukund king. Parama Bhattaraka Devi – Name of a Goddess worshipped by Gupthas. Chandravathi /Sandravathi – Daughter of sister of Chandra Guptha -1. Guptha maheshwara temple was constructed by Chandra Maheshwara devi. It is located near Uma Maheshwara temple. Srisailam = Sriparvatha. Vakatakas were the relatives of Gupthas. Because of this, Vakatakas patronized only Brahmanical Vedic religion. Vakataka’s influence might have fallen on Vishnukunds. Vishnukunds have given more importance to Vedic Brahmanical religion. Due to the influence of Gupthas and Vakatakas, vishnukunds got sanskritised and followed only Vedic-Brahmanical religion.   Vedic Puranic Religion Vishnukunds’ names related to Vedic and Vaishnavite faiths. From the beginning Vishnukunds worshipped Sri Parvatha Swamy / Sri Saila Mallikharjuna swamy. Sriparvatha Padanudyanam = Worshipping the feet of Sriparvatha Swami. (By worshipping the feet of feet of Sriparvatha Swami, they got the power to rule their people), But the other aspects like their names and their city names indicate that they were the followers of Vaishnavism. On Vishnukund coins they carved out the name ‘Sri Parvatha’. Uma Maheshwara temple is located in the Amrabad mandal of Mahabubnagar district. Uma Maheshwara temple is depicted on their coins. Amrabad / Uma Maheshwara temple is considered as the Northern gate way of Srisaila temple. SriShaila Mallikharjuna also became famous with that name during Vishnukund period only.   483 A.D. – With the orders of Madhava Varma III, in his 33^rd regnal year, idol installation of war drum and Dhanthamukha swamy (Ganapathi) have taken place. Venkaiah / Ganapathi idol was there outside the Amrabad village. Nearby this idol, Venkaiah bavi and ruins of Shiva Parvathi temple are there. War drum is now in the compound of Uma Maheshwara temple. Inscriptions state that Govinda Varma had constructed several ‘Divayatanas’. The temples that were constructed during the vishnukund period were located in Amrabad mandal, the early capital of Vishnukunds, located in Nallamala forests, under the waterfall and in caves. Vanakeswaram principle deity was Shambhu. Andandagotris / Kandara Kings worshipped Shambhu. Andanda Gotris were the contemporaries of Vishnukunds. They ruled the areas east to Vishnukund kingdom. One such Vanakeshwaram is there in Amrabad mandal. Avanitalantavati was the name of a Kandara Priness. The name also indicates Amrabad plateau. Akkanna Madanna temples. – Actually these temples were constructed by Vishnukund king Madhava Varma II. Akkanna – Madanna Caves in Kanakadurga group of Temples on Indrakeeladri at Bezwada / Vijayawada, The temples of Keesaragutta, Maheshwara Temple on the outskirts of Hyderabad are said to have built by Akkanna – Madanna. But actually these temples were built by Vishnukund king Madhava Varma II. As there are similarities in promoting Hinduism, the name of Madhava Varma might have been taken for Akkanna – Madanna of 17^th Century.   Madhava Varma II built many temples dedicated to Ramlingeshwara. Whenever he won a battle, he constructed those temples. In that way, we have Ramalingeshwara temple at Velpuru in, in Sattanapalli taluk, of Guntur dist., and Keesara gutta temple are receiving worships till today.   In the Sthala Purana of Uma Maheshwara temple there is a reference of Lord Rama. Foot prints o fRama are there to the south of Uma Maheshwara temple. From this it is clear that, in the beginning it was a Ramalingeshwara temple.   Pallaveshwara Temple – Located to the North of Uma Maheshwara temple. It was on the way to Munnanoor. Pallavas invaded on Vishnukund kingdom twice or thrice. Two commemorate this Pallavas constructed Pallaveshwara temple.   Taking que from Madhava varma II, as marks ofor the several victories that he achieved, he made installation of Shivalings on Keesaragutta a the rate of one for each victory. As the Vishnukunds were Vaishnavas, Sivalingas are called Ramalings. The same practice was followed by Eastern Chalukyas king Vijayadithya II, who as a mark of his 108 victories built 108 Bhimeshwara temples. Madhava Varma II was described as ‘Snanapanyodaka pavithrikrita sirshah’ (the one whose head was purified by the sacred waters). From this it is learnt that during his time, pilgrimages and bathing in sacred waters assumed great importance. Vikramendra varma donated Regonta village as devabhoga to Triyambhakanatha temple of God Somagirishwara Natha in Netrapati vishaya. Vishnukunds also donated along with villages, lands, old charitots, horses, cows and cots, arts, water food, houses, ornaments, girls and thousands of servants. Vishnukunds performed several sacrifices and ritual. Madhava Varma II had a reputation of Performing sacrifices such as ‘Ekadashashwamedha’, Avabritha, Avadhauta, Jagatkalmasha, Agnistoma, bahuswarna, Purushmedha, Vajapeya Shodarajasurya, ‘Prajapathyaneku paundarika sata sahasrayojino’. The practice of donating thousand so servants and girls and sacrificing men in the yagnas indicate the prevailing inequalities in the then society. The avabritha bathing ghat present in Munnanoor fort, is still seen as a great memory of the sacrifices performed by the Vishnukunds.   Buddhism: By the first phase of Vishnukund rule, Buddhism had huge spread in the society. The first generation of Vishnukund rulers, in order to respect the majority opinion, have patronized Buddhism, though they themselves were the followers of Vedic religion. Govinda Varma had donated in his 37^th regnal year, on the full moon day of Vaishakha month, for providing light, sandal flowers, dhwaja water, food, sleep, arama, grasa, medicine and other essentials to Themaha vihara built by queen Paramabhattarika, wife of Govinda Varma. Themaha vihara was located in Indrapala nagara. Donation was made to Dasabala bali, who was well versed in 18 branches of Buddhist dharma. The donation ceremony was convened in Penkaparra village. Here Govinda varma addressed the 14^th arya sangha. Village of Enmandala was also donated to them. 566 A.D. – Vikramednra Varma donated Irrundero village to Themaha vihara. Prithivi mula, uncle of Govinda Varma, had Tokhalikhata Maha Vihara, in the capital Gunapasa puram, East Godavari district. Hari Varma, son of Prithivi mula, constructed a Maha Vihara at Gunapasa puram. To this Maha vihara, Prithivi Mula donated Katta cheruvu village. Prithvi mula also built Sekya Bhikshu Vihara near Tatikonda.   Incriptions are informing that Govinda Varma had installed many beautiful Maha Viharas and Vikramendra Varma had made donations to the sacred Buddhist monk samghas were existing in different areas. It is clear that early Vishnukund rulers had constructed Aramas, Viharas on the four sides of their kingdom. Govindaraja Vihara is located in Chaithanya puri colony in the surroundings of Hyderabad. This belongs to Hinayana sect of Buddhism. Buddhist ruins at Keesaragutta and Kondapuram. Arama, Stupa and Viharas at Phanigiri and Gajulabanda in Nalgonda district. Sthupa and Arama at Nelakondapalli in Khammam district. 2011 A.D. – Excavations were conducted at Phanigiri. Here six Aramas have come to light. Rooms were discovered in each Arama. Saleshvara vihara was renovated by Vishnukunds. It was built by Ekshavaku kings. Located in Amrabad mandal, Mahabub Nagar district. On the northern left bank of river Krishna. Tucked in the hills of Nallamala forests. Ekshwaku period structures were built with bricks sized 18 X 10 X 2 ½ inches. We can see constructions with these bricks. The constructions after Ekshwaku period were built with bricks sized 10 X 10 X 2 ½ inches. We can see constructions of these bricks also. Rock structures and ancient Telugu-Kannada inscriptions also found here. In Andhra Pradesh – Buddhist constructions were there at Jaggayyapeta, Salihundam, Ramatirtham, Thotlakonda, Bojjanakonda, Buddham and other places, but most of these sites were there already. However, in respect of these, extension activities have been taken up on a large scale during the Vishnukund period.

Write about the spread of Buddhism and Jainism in Telangana region

Write about the spread of Buddhism and Jainism in Telangana region? The Buddhism and Jainism which were started in North East India, in no time spreaded to South India also. In Telangana many Buddhist and Jain settlements were there. Buddhism had more following than Jainism in Telangana region. Shaatavaahana kings, Ekvakus, Vishnukunds, Vakatakas patronized Buddhism. After this period the patrinisation was limited. Some of Badami Chalukyas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, Eastern Chalukyas, and Vijayanagara kings patronized Buddhism. Here point to be noted it, there were no quarrels between Jains and Buddhists. Buddhism flourished in South during Shaatavaahana period. Common people also followed Buddhism. 1. Tirumalagiri, 2. Ramireddy Palli 3. Phanigiri 4. Dhoolikatta etc. places Shaatavahana period Sthupas, Chaithyas and Viharas are found. Due to recentment on Vedic religion, people started following Buddhism. It was a revolutionary religion which was followed like a movement. In Haala’s ‘Gaatha Saptha Shati’, Worship of Buddha’s feet was mentioned. Gouthamiputhra Shaatakarni and his mother made many donations to Buddhists. Ekshvaku kings also patronized Buddhism. Buddhism spread rapidly during the reign of Matariputhra Veerapurusha Dutta. Nagarjuna Konda became a Buddhist center. Due to the influence of Mahaayaana Buddhism, Buddha started to be worshiped in idol form. Buddha, a socio-religious reformer became God and later he was made one of the incarnations of Lord Vishnu.

Sources for Chalukyan period

Sources for Chalukyan period Rich archaeological and literary sources are available for the reconstruction of Chalukyan history. Mainly stone and copper plate inscriptions. From Kubja Vishnuvardhana to Vishnuvardhana V –names of 3 generations on the inscriptions. Donor name, his father name and grandfather name. No extra information is available. From Gunaga Vijayadhithya / Vijayadithya III (Eastern Chalukyan king)time we get more information in the inscriptions. Saluru inscription was issued by Gunaga Vijayadhithya. In this inscription we can find the chronology of the earlier rulers, their ruling period, events worth mentioning. (848 – 892 C.E.) Neelagudi Inscription was issued by Gunaga Vijayadhithya / Vijayadhithya III in the year 866 A.D.. According to this inscription, Gunaga Vijayadhithya / Vijayadhithya III was the feudatory of Amoghavarsha 1 of Rashtrakuta dynasty.   Sanjan Copper plate inscription was issued in the year 872 A.D. According to this inscription, unlike the other feudatories, Gunaga Vijayadithya III cleaned the walking path of Amoghavarsha. Kopparam inscription 631 A.D. – According to this inscription Pulakesi has referred to Vishnuvardhana as the heir apparent (Yuvaraja – Crown prince). Pulakesi II had conquered coastal Andhra. Cheepurupalli inscription 641 A.D. – According to this inscription Vishnuvardhana has assumed the title of Maharaja and carried on the rule. Aihole inscription – It is the most important source to know about the greatness of Pulakesi II of Badami Chalukyan dynasty. Aihole inscription was composed by Ravikeerthi, Pulakesi II’s minister of war. It was composed in Sanskrit. Kollipara copper plate inscription of Vemulavada Chalukyan king Arikesari I. 8^th Century A.D. This inscription is giving details about his administration. Kuruvagattu stone inscription is found in Mahaboobnagar. 8^th Century A.D. It was issued by Beeragruha, second son of Vindayadhithya yuddhamalla of Vemulavada Chalukya dynasty. Vemulavada copper plate inscriptions of Arikesari II. Arikesari II ruled in the 1^st half of 5^th century. These inscriptions are giving information about the developmental activities from Yuddhamalla to Arikesari. Chennur Copper Plate inscription (941 A.D.). According to this inscription Yuddhamalla I made an attack o Vijayadhithya, the Mudigonda Chalukyan king. Vijayadhithya opposed Yuddhamalla I. Vijayadhithya sought the help of Arikesari II of Vemulavada chalukyan dynasty. Arikesari II offered shelter to Vijayadhithya and made him the ruler of Chennur. Kurkyala inscription was written by Jayavallabha in the year 940 A.D. Jayavallabha was the brother of famous Kannada poet Pampa. Pampa was the court poet of Arikesari II. According to this inscriptions Pampa authored Aadipuraana 941 A.D. Parbhani copper plate inscription 966 A.D. was issued during the time of Arikesari III. According to this inscription Arikesari III’s Subahdar constructed Jain temples at Repaka and made land grants to it.   Literary Sources: Vikramarjuna Vijayam – written by Pampa in Kannada. It is a prominent work during the time of Vemulavada Chalukyas. Pampa was patronized by Arikesari II (930 A.D.- 941 A.D.), while he wrote this work. * Arikesar II was praised in this work. * Relation with the Rashtrakutas was discussed. Yashasthilaka a champu kavya was written by Somadeva Suri. Yashasthilaka is also called as Yashodhara Charithra. Somadeva Suri was a jain scholor. It is an important source to know the history of the last rulers of Vemulavada Chalukya kings. Religionus doctrines of Jainism. * Religious and social conditions during Vemulavada Chalukya kings. * Some political aspects. Neethikaavyaamrutha was also authored by Somadeva suri. It is also an important book to know the details of Vemulavada Chalukyas. Mogala Cheruvu inscription + Krivvaka inscription are the only 2 donors of copper plate inscriptions were seen during Mudigonda Chalukya period. In these inscriptions we can find details about the early history of this dynasty. Mogala Cheruvu inscription was issued by Kusumayudha IV. This inscription mentioned Mudigonda Chalukyas as ‘Manayavasa gothrulu’, ‘Harataputrulu’. The kingdom was the result of Kaushika’s prasadam ruled by Saptamatruk. They received Varaha Lanchana by the mercy of Narayana. According to this inscription Mudigonda Chalukyas had relation with Ayodhya. Krivvaka inscription was issued by Kusumayudha IV. Giving information about Mudigonda Chalukyas’ chronology. Bezawada copper plate inscription – Kusumayudha had donated Kukiparru village to Potamaiah, a Brahmin. Narayani Copper Plate inscription (1004 A.D.) tells us about the system of administration of Chalukya Gonagarasa, who ruled Warangal region. Koravi inscription (935 A.D.) also an important one. Coins Gold, Silver and Copper coins were in circulation. Some Gold coins with the name ‘Chalukya Chandra’ were issued by Eastern Chalukyan king Shakti Varma 999A.D. – 1011 A.D.) These coins were found at Arkan and Siam. Gadya – Gold coin during Chalukyan period. It used to be of 88 grains weight. Various gold coins were there. Rajanarayana gadya, Surabhi gadya and tyaga gadya. Mada – Silver coin during the Chalukyan period. Kasu – Copper coin during the Chalukyan period.