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The Ganga dynasty was an influential Indian royal lineage that ruled in two distinct regions and eras: the Western Gangas in present-day Karnataka from the 4th to the 10th centuries CE, and the Eastern Gangas in Kalinga (modern Odisha) from the 5th century to the mid-15th century. Though distantly related, both dynasties were renowned for their military prowess, administrative innovations, and remarkable patronage of art, architecture, and religion.
The Western Gangas gained independence around 350 CE, taking advantage of the Pallava kingdom's decline. They moved their capital from Kolar to Talakad, and often allied with more powerful neighbors. The Western Gangas were known for their effective administration influenced by the Arthashastra, tolerance of all faiths, and especially for supporting Jainism, leading to monuments like the Gomateshwara at Shravanabelagola. Their architectural contributions used South Indian Dravidian style, square pillars, and free-standing lion-emblem Mahasthambhas. The dynasty declined after conquest by the Cholas around 1000 CE.
The Eastern Gangas rose in Kalinga in the 5th century, flourishing between the 11th and 15th centuries under Anantavarman Chodaganga. They expanded territory from the Ganges to the Godavari and resisted invasions for over 200 years. Initially Shaivites, they became Vaishnavites. Their architectural legacy includes the Jagannath Temple in Puri and the Konark Sun Temple. The Ganga dynasties contributed significantly to Sanskrit, Kannada, and Odia literature.
The Hoysalas ruled large parts of Karnataka from the 10th to 14th centuries CE. Initially feudatories to the Western Chalukyas, they rose to power under Vishnuvardhana and Veera Ballala II. Known for their military strength, administration, and patronage of art, their architectural style—Karnata Dravida or Vesara—is famous for detailed soapstone carvings, especially in temples at Belur, Halebidu, and Somanathapura. Their era was also a golden age for Kannada literature with poets like Janna and Harihara. They supported both Jainism and Vaishnavism, and promoted social and educational development through temples.
The Rashtrakuta dynasty, a formidable power in Indian history, ruled large parts of the Deccan from the 8th to the 10th century CE. Emerging as subordinates to the Badami Chalukyas, the Rashtrakutas rose to prominence through military prowess and shrewd political maneuvering. Their reign was marked by expansion, a sophisticated administrative system, and significant contributions to art, literature, and religion. As a crucial link between northern and southern India, the Rashtrakutas left a profound and lasting legacy on the subcontinent's cultural and political landscape.
The dynasty's foundation was laid by Dantidurga, a feudatory of the Chalukyas, who overthrew his overlord Kirtivarman II around 753 CE. He established his capital at Manyakheta (modern Malkhed in Karnataka). His successor, Krishna I, consolidated the empire and commissioned the magnificent Kailasa Temple at Ellora.
The empire peaked under Govinda III and Amoghavarsha I. Govinda III’s military campaigns expanded their reach from Kannauj to Cape Comorin. Amoghavarsha I, a Jain and a scholar, authored the Kannada classic Kavirajamarga. Their structured administration included provinces (rashtras), districts (vishayas), and local units (bhuktis), balancing royal authority with local governance.
The Rashtrakuta economy was robust, driven by agriculture and maritime trade. Ports like Bharoch facilitated exports of textiles and spices. Religious tolerance defined their rule, with Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism all receiving patronage. This pluralism is evident in the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Kannada and Sanskrit literature flourished, with writers like Adikavi Pampa and Sri Ponna contributing immensely. The dynasty’s decline began after the sacking of their capital by the Paramaras in 972 CE. The last emperor, Indra IV, committed ritual suicide in 982 CE, marking the dynasty’s end.
Despite their fall, the Rashtrakutas left a lasting legacy in governance, architecture, and literature, with structures like the Kailasa Temple standing as testaments to their brilliance.
The legacy of the Nadaprabhu Kempegowda dynasty is inextricably linked with the rise of Bengaluru. As vassals under the Vijayanagara Empire, the Yelahanka Nadu Prabhus fostered a new urban center in the 16th century. Their planning, social reforms, and infrastructure development laid the foundation of modern Bengaluru.
Nadaprabhu Kempe Gowda I, the dynasty’s most renowned figure, founded Bengaluru in 1537. Legend says the idea struck him during a hunting trip. With the Vijayanagara emperor’s approval, he built a fortified city marked by four watchtowers and divided into various market quarters or “petes.” Names like Akkipete and Balepete still exist today.
Kempe Gowda I abolished the inhumane practice of “Bandi Devaru” among the Morasu Vokkaligas. He authored a Telugu Yakshagana play and built many lakes like Dharmambudhi and Kempambudhi for irrigation. Temples such as the Gavi Gangadhareshwara and the Bull Temple also reflect his patronage.
His son, Kempe Gowda II, completed the watchtowers and relocated the capital to Magadi after losing Bengaluru. He fortified Magadi and continued development efforts. Eventually, Kempegowda III lost Bengaluru to Bijapur forces in 1638, and the dynasty’s political control waned.
However, their influence endures. Kempegowda’s vision gave rise to one of India’s most prominent cities. Landmarks like Kempegowda International Airport and Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Metro Station commemorate his lasting contributions.