CAPF AC 2021 Q45: Ancient History – Post - Mauryan & Foreign Invasions
- (a) Andhras
- (b) Shakas
- (c) Kshatrapas
- (d) Sungas
Answer: (a) Andhras
Explanation
What the Puranas call the Satavahanas
How to think: the Satavahanas ruled the Deccan, covering Maharashtra and the Andhra region.
Their own inscriptions use the name Satavahana.
The Puranas list the same kings as the Andhras (or Andhra-bhrityas).
| Name | Who they were |
|---|---|
| Andhras | Puranic name of the Satavahanas |
| Shakas | Central Asian invaders, also called Scythians |
| Kshatrapas | Title of the Shaka governors of western India |
| Sungas | Dynasty that followed the Mauryas in Magadha |
Key facts about the Satavahanas: founder Simuka; greatest king Gautamiputra Satakarni; capital Pratishthana (Paithan); they used metronyms (mother's name) and issued lead coins.
Answer: (a) Andhras.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. The Puranas call the Satavahanas the Andhras.
- (b) Incorrect. The Shakas were foreign rulers and the enemies of the Satavahanas.
- (c) Incorrect. Kshatrapa was the title of Shaka rulers such as Rudradaman.
- (d) Incorrect. The Sungas were a separate dynasty of north India.
Key point
Satavahanas = Andhras of the Puranas. Founder Simuka; capital Pratishthana; Gautamiputra Satakarni defeated the Shaka ruler Nahapana; Nasik inscription of Gautami Balashri.
Remember
Satavahanas = Andhras (Puranas).
Common mistakes
- Marking Kshatrapas, the title of the Shakas who fought the Satavahanas.
- Thinking the Satavahanas were foreigners like the Shakas and Kushanas.
- Assuming the name Andhra means they ruled only modern Andhra Pradesh.
Exam tip
Educated guess: Shakas and Kshatrapas are the same group, so neither can be the single answer. The Satavahanas ruled the Deccan, which points to Andhras.
Sources
- NCERT Class XII History — Themes in Indian History Part I, Chapter 2: Kings, Farmers and Towns
- R. S. Sharma, India's Ancient Past — The Age of the Satavahanas