The Cholas (9th–13th century A.D.) established one of the greatest empires in South India with their capital at Thanjavur. Their rule is remembered for efficient administration, economic prosperity, and cultural achievements, making the Chola period a high point of Tamil civilization. Social Conditions Caste system was prevalent but society was relatively flexible compared to North …
The Rashtrakutas (8th–10th century A.D.) ruled over the Deccan with their capital at Manyakheta (Malkhed, Karnataka). They were not only powerful rulers but also great patrons of art, architecture, and literature. Their reign is particularly remembered for the Ellora Kailasanatha Temple, one of the finest achievements of Indian art. Architecture The Rashtrakutas followed and developed …
The Chalukyas (6th–8th century A.D.) ruled large parts of the Deccan with their capital at Badami (Vatapi). They were not only powerful rulers but also great patrons of art and architecture, laying the foundations for later developments in South Indian temple styles. Their contribution is especially remembered for rock-cut temples and the unique Vesara style. …
The Pallavas (4th–9th century A.D.) rose to power in South India with their capital at Kanchipuram. They were great patrons of art and architecture, and their reign laid the foundation for South Indian temple culture. Sources Inscriptions: Copper plate grants like the Kasakudi and Udayendiram plates, and stone inscriptions. Literary sources: Works of Dandin (Dasakumaracharita) …
After the fall of the Guptas, North India was politically fragmented until Harshavardhana (606–647 A.D.) united much of it under his rule. He established a strong kingdom in northern India with Kanauj as his capital. Harsha is remembered not only as a ruler but also as a patron of religion, literature, and culture. Sources Harshacharita …
The Gupta Empire (4th to 6th century A.D.) is known as the Golden Age of India due to achievements in literature, science, art, and culture. Founded by Chandragupta I, it reached its peak under Samudragupta and Chandragupta II (Vikramaditya). Though politically powerful and culturally vibrant, the empire eventually declined due to invasions and weak successors. …
The Sangam Age (circa 3rd century B.C. to 3rd century A.D.) refers to the period in ancient Tamil Nadu when Tamil literature was composed in assemblies of poets called Sangams. This era is significant for its political developments, flourishing literature, and insights into the social and cultural life of the people of South India. Sources …
After the decline of the Mauryas in 185 B.C., India fragmented into regional kingdoms. Though no single empire could unite the subcontinent immediately, several dynasties such as the Sungas, Kanvas, Satavahanas, and Kushanas rose to power. This period also witnessed cultural development, flourishing trade, and remarkable achievements in art, particularly the Gandhara school. The Sungas …
The Mauryan Empire (321–185 B.C.) was the first great empire in Indian history, bringing political unity to most of the subcontinent. Founded by Chandragupta Maurya with the guidance of Chanakya (Kautilya), it reached its greatest extent under Ashoka. The Mauryan period is remembered for its strong administration, promotion of dhamma, and remarkable achievements in art …
By the 6th–4th centuries B.C., northern India was politically fragmented into many mahajanapadas. This period witnessed the growth of powerful states, external invasions, and the rise of the Nanda dynasty, which set the stage for the Mauryan Empire. The Persian and Greek invasions influenced India in politics, economy, and culture. The Nanda Dynasty The Nandas …