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The Post-Mauryan Period (c. 185 BCE–300 CE) followed the decline of the Mauryan Empire and was marked by the rise of regional dynasties and foreign invasions in India. This period saw the emergence of indigenous powers like the Sungas, Kanvas, and Satavahanas, alongside foreign rulers such as the Indo-Greeks, Sakas, and Kushanas. It is a critical topic for UPSC Prelims due to its contributions to art, trade, religion, and the political fragmentation of India.
The Mauryan Empire declined after Ashoka’s death (232 BCE), leading to political fragmentation. By 185 BCE, Pushyamitra Sunga overthrew the last Mauryan king, initiating the Post-Mauryan period. This era saw the coexistence of Indian dynasties and foreign invaders, culminating in the rise of the Gupta Empire around 300 CE.
| Dynasty/Invasion | Timeline | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Sunga Dynasty | 185–73 BCE | Brahminical revival, patronage of Hinduism |
| Kanva Dynasty | 73–28 BCE | Short-lived, continuation of Sunga policies |
| Satavahana Dynasty | 1st century BCE–2nd century CE | Deccan dominance, maritime trade |
| Indo-Greeks | 180 BCE–10 CE | Hellenistic influence, coinage |
| Sakas | 1st century BCE–4th century CE | Western India, satrap system |
| Kushanas | 1st–3rd century CE | Central Asian empire, Silk Route trade |
Founded by Pushyamitra Sunga (185–149 BCE), the Sungas ruled Magadha and parts of northern India. They are known for reviving Brahminical traditions after the Mauryan patronage of Buddhism.
The Sungas patronized Hinduism, constructed stupas (e.g., Bharhut), and supported Sanskrit literature. They faced invasions from Indo-Greeks and internal revolts.
The Kanvas (73–28 BCE) succeeded the Sungas after Devabhuti’s assassination. They were a short-lived Brahmin dynasty ruling Magadha.
The Kanvas continued Sunga policies, patronizing Hinduism. Their rule was weak, leading to their replacement by the Satavahanas in the Deccan.
The Satavahanas (1st century BCE–2nd century CE) ruled the Deccan, with capitals at Pratishthana (Paithan) and Amaravati. They were a major indigenous power, known for maritime trade and Buddhist patronage.
The Satavahanas patronized Buddhism, constructing stupas at Amaravati and Nagarjunakonda. They issued lead and copper coins and promoted Indo-Roman trade. Their inscriptions (e.g., Naneghat) provide historical insights.
The Indo-Greeks (180 BCE–10 CE) were Hellenistic rulers in northwestern India, descendants of Alexander’s successors. They ruled Bactria, Gandhara, and Punjab.
The Indo-Greeks introduced Hellenistic art (Gandhara School) and issued bilingual coins (Greek and Prakrit). They promoted cultural synthesis, blending Greek and Indian traditions.
The Sakas (1st century BCE–4th century CE), nomadic tribes from Central Asia, ruled western India (Malwa, Gujarat). They were organized into satrapies.
The Sakas adopted Indian culture, patronizing Sanskrit (e.g., Rudradaman’s inscription). They controlled Indo-Roman trade routes and introduced the satrap system.
The Kushanas (1st–3rd century CE), originating from Central Asia, ruled northern India, Central Asia, and parts of China. Their empire facilitated cultural and trade exchanges via the Silk Route.
The Kushanas promoted Buddhism, constructing stupas and monasteries. They developed Gandhara and Mathura art schools, issued gold coins, and controlled Silk Route trade. Kanishka’s reign saw the spread of Mahayana Buddhism to Central Asia.
The Post-Mauryan economy thrived on agriculture, trade, and crafts. Indo-Roman trade flourished, with ports like Bharuch exporting spices, textiles, and gems. Guilds (shrenis) organized artisans and traders. Coins (gold, silver, copper) were widely used.
The varna system continued, with Brahmins and Kshatriyas holding high status. Foreign rulers adopted Indian customs, promoting social integration. Women’s roles varied, with some royal women (e.g., Satavahana queens) holding influence.
Buddhism and Jainism flourished, alongside a Brahminical revival. Art schools (Gandhara, Mathura, Amaravati) produced iconic sculptures. Literature, including Patanjali’s Mahabhashya and Buddhist texts, thrived.
The Post-Mauryan period saw regional powers and foreign invasions, setting the stage for the Gupta Empire’s unification.
The blending of Indian, Hellenistic, and Central Asian cultures enriched art, religion, and architecture, influencing later Indian traditions.
Trade networks, especially the Silk Route and Indo-Roman trade, boosted India’s economy and global connections.
The spread of Mahayana Buddhism and the Brahminical revival shaped India’s religious landscape, influencing the Gupta period.