Powers of the Deccan
The Satavahanas ruled the Deccan for nearly 300 years. They were also known as Andhras. The powerful rulers of this empire were Shri Satakarni, Vashishtiputra Pulumayi and Yajnasri Satakarni was the most powerful of them all. The inscription composed by his mother, Gautami Balashri gives detailed information about Shri Satakarni. Pratisthana (modern Paithan in Maharashtra) was their capital. Satavahana rulers were given the title lords of the Dakshinapatha, literally the route leading to the south, which was also used as a name for the entire southern region. Shri Gowtamiputra Satakarni sent his army to the eastern, western and southern coasts. Gowthamiputra Satakarni brought many Vedic rites back to practice. He was tolerant of other faiths. The Satavahanas established a powerful empire.
Dharma and society
Satavahanas were adherents of Vaidika Dharma. They would perform sacrifices like Aswamedha and other sacrifices (yagas). Under their rule the foreign citizens who chose to live in India, would voluntarily accept Hindu or Buddhist faiths and named their children after Hindu and Buddhist gods and great persons. Worshipped Shiva and Vishnu. They mixed with the society as sugar would mix with milk. Women were respected. They held properties and donated liberally to the dharmic centres.
Art and Architecture
Satavahanas contributed considerably to architecture. Three types of architecture that developed during their time are Chaithyas, Viharas and Stupas. Chaithyas are the prayer halls of Buddhists and Viharas are the living places of Buddha Bhikshus.
There structures are carved into big rocks. The Chaithya near Karle in Maharashtra is very big and beautiful. The Chaitya near Kancheri is famous. Viharas are carved into the rocks situated near a Chaithya. The Stupa at Amaravthi in Andhra Pradesh is built of marble and is artistic. We can see Satavahana at Sannati in Gulbargha district and at Banavasi in Uttara Kannada districts.
No comments:
Post a Comment