Who among the following founded the Shunga dynasty?
Pushyamitra
Understanding the Founder of the Shunga Dynasty
The question asks about the individual who founded the Shunga dynasty. This dynasty succeeded the powerful Mauryan Empire in ancient India.
Who Established the Shunga Dynasty?
The Shunga dynasty was established by Pushyamitra Shunga. Pushyamitra was the commander-in-chief (Senapati) of the last Mauryan ruler, Brihadratha. Around 185 BCE, Pushyamitra Shunga assassinated Brihadratha and usurped the throne, thereby ending the Mauryan rule and laying the foundation for the Shunga dynasty.
His reign marked a significant transition period in the history of ancient India.
Key Rulers and Figures Mentioned
Let's look at the individuals mentioned in the options to understand their roles within or related to the Shunga dynasty:
- Pushyamitra: As discussed, he was the founder of the Shunga dynasty. He ruled for approximately 36 years.
- Devabhuti: He was the last ruler of the Shunga dynasty. His reign ended around 73 BCE when he was overthrown by his minister Vasudeva Kanva, who founded the Kanva dynasty.
- Agnimitra: He was the son and successor of Pushyamitra Shunga. Agnimitra is a significant figure and is mentioned in Kalidasa's play 'Malavikagnimitram'.
- Vasumitra: He was another ruler of the Shunga dynasty, generally considered the fifth king after Pushyamitra, Agnimitra, Sujyeshtha, and Vasujyeshtha.
Summary of the Shunga Dynasty Founding
The transition from the Mauryan Empire to the Shunga dynasty was a pivotal event. Pushyamitra Shunga, a military commander, was the driving force behind this change. He capitalized on the weakening Mauryan authority to seize power and establish his own rule.
| Name | Role | Relationship to Founder |
|---|---|---|
| Pushyamitra Shunga | Founder and First King | Himself |
| Agnimitra | Second King | Son of Pushyamitra |
| Vasumitra | Fifth King | Grandson or descendant of Pushyamitra |
| Devabhuti | Last King | Later ruler in the dynasty |
Based on historical accounts, it is clear that Pushyamitra Shunga was the founder of the Shunga dynasty.
Revision Table: Shunga Dynasty Basics
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founder | Pushyamitra Shunga |
| Period | Circa 185 BCE to 73 BCE |
| Preceded by | Mauryan Empire |
| Succeeded by | Kanva Dynasty |
| Capital | Pataliputra (initially), Vidisha also important |
Additional Information on Shunga Dynasty
The Shunga period is often noted for a revival of Brahmanical influence following the Buddhist prominence during the Mauryan era. Pushyamitra Shunga is sometimes associated with a backlash against Buddhism, though this is debated among historians. The period also saw developments in art and architecture, such as the expansion of the Sanchi stupa and the construction of gateways (toranas).
The dynasty faced challenges from both internal and external fronts, including invasions from the Indo-Greeks.
Understanding the founder, Pushyamitra Shunga, is crucial to understanding the beginning of this important post-Mauryan dynasty.
Important Questions from Regional Kingdoms
Which of the following dynasty was founded by Vindhyashakti?
- During the Saka-Satavahana period the range of interest on fixed deposit (akshayanivi) as described in the inscription of Nasik Cave No. 10 was:
Which of the following dynasties traced its origin from Asura Naraka?
(A) Bhanjas of Orissa
(B) Palas of Bengal
(C) Sailodbhavas of Orissa
(D) Varmanas of Assam
Choose the correct answer from the options given below :
Historians believe that many of the Kushana rulers who started calling themselves ‘Devaputras’ or ‘Sons of God’ were possibly inspired by the emperors of ______ culture.
Who among the following was given the title of ‘Uttarapatha Swamin’?
