After the decline of the Pala Empire, Bihar came under the control of various regional dynasties before the emergence of the Delhi Sultanate and later the Mughals. The Karnat, Oiniwar, and Khayaravala dynasties played a significant role in the history of medieval Bihar.
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Karnat Dynasty (1097 CE – 1324 CE)
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Founded by Nanyadeva, who made Simraongarh his capital.
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Originated from South India (Karnataka region) but established power in Mithila and North Bihar.
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Nanyadeva (1097–1147 CE) was the most famous ruler, known for administrative reforms and patronage of scholars.
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The dynasty protected Mithila from frequent invasions and maintained stability for nearly two centuries.
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Declined with the rise of the Oiniwar dynasty and invasions from the Delhi Sultanate.
Oiniwar Dynasty (1325 CE – 1526 CE)
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Succeeded the Karnat dynasty in Mithila (North Bihar).
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Founded by Kameshwar Thakur, a Maithil Brahmin, with Oini village (near Darbhanga) as the initial base.
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Later shifted the capital to Mithila (Darbhanga region).
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The dynasty ruled for nearly 200 years.
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They were known for their promotion of Maithili culture, Sanskrit learning, and temples.
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The famous scholar Vidyapati, a great Maithili poet, enjoyed patronage under this dynasty.
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Declined due to the growing influence of Afghan rulers and internal weaknesses before the advent of the Mughals.
Khayaravala Dynasty (11th – 13th Century CE)
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Ruled the Rohtasgarh (Rohtas district, Bihar) region.
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Belonged to the Kharwar tribe, later rose to the status of rulers.
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Controlled South Bihar and adjoining Jharkhand regions.
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Built fortresses and temples, leaving behind inscriptions and architectural remains.
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Played an important role in resisting invasions from neighboring powers.
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Declined with the rise of the Delhi Sultanate in the 13th century.
Significance of Regional Dynasties in Bihar
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These dynasties maintained political stability in Bihar after the fall of the Palas and before the arrival of the Mughals.
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They contributed to the growth of Maithili culture, language, and literature.
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Built forts, temples, and educational centers, leaving behind an important legacy in Bihar’s medieval history.
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Their rule reflects the regional identity and resilience of Bihar against external invasions.