Andhra Dynasty

Andhra Dynasty, also called Satavahana (230? bc-ad 230), Indian ruling house originating in what is now the state of Andhra Pradesh. The dynasty may have begun as a family of high officials of the Mauryan Empire, gradually becoming independent as the empire declined. From the 2nd century bc to the 2nd century ad, the Andhras ruled over much of southern and central India, conquering the Sungas of Magadha in 27 bc and vying with the Sakas for control of the Deccan.

The greatest ruler of the dynasty was probably Satakarni I (1st century ad), who extended his kingdom over the northwestern Deccan, establishing his capital at modern Paithan in Mahārāshtra State. Although subsequently forced out of the area by the Sakas, the Andhras surged back in the 2nd century ad under Gautamiputra Satakarni (?-ad 128?), a great champion of Hinduism. The last great king of the dynasty was Yajna Sri Satakarni (late-2nd century), who once more asserted Andhra authority over the Sakas. The dynasty declined during the 3rd century, when the kingdom broke up into smaller units.