INTRODUCTION

The Satavahanas were the first empire builders in South India. Their kingdom was established on the ruins of the Mauryan Empire, and they ruled over Dakshinapatha for about 250 years.

During their reign, the entire Deccan was united, providing a stable and long-lasting rule. This period witnessed the emergence of efficient administration, growth of overseas trade and commerce, and the development of a new architectural style. The Satavahanas served as a cultural bridge and played a vital role in enhancing trade between Northern and Southern India. Historians consider the Satavahana period as the beginning of artistic and cultural development in the Deccan region.

Geographical Extent

The Satavahana kingdom mainly comprised the regions of:

• Malwa
• Kutch
• Saurashtra
• Telangana
• Andhra Pradesh
• Southern plains of the Gangetic valley

At its peak, the empire extended further into Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The Satavahana dynasty had different capital cities at different times, including:

• Pratishthana (Paithan)
• Amaravati (Dharanikota)
• Kotilingala

The chronology of the Satavahana rule is broadly considered to be from the 1st century BCE to the 3rd century CE.