Table of Contents:
- About Chalukya Dynasty
- Rulers of the Chalukya Dynasty
- The Decline of the Chalukya Dynasty
- Administration of the Chalukya Dynasty
- Art and Architecture of the Chalukya Dynasty
- Important Temples Built by Chalukya
About Chalukya Dynasty:
The Chalukya dynasty was a prominent ruling dynasty in ancient and medieval India. They played a significant role in shaping the political and cultural landscape of the Deccan region from the 6th century CE to the 12th century CE.
The following is an overview of the history of the Chalukya dynasty:
Early Chalukyas:
The Chalukya dynasty was founded by Pulakeshin I in the mid-6th century CE. He performed Ashwamedha Yajna. He founded the Chalukya capital at Vatapi.
The early Chalukyas ruled over the region of modern-day Karnataka.
Pulakeshin II, the most notable ruler of this period, expanded the Chalukya kingdom and achieved significant military victories, including defeating the Pallavas of Kanchipuram.
Badami Chalukya:
The Badami Chalukyas, also known as the Western Chalukyas, ruled from their capital in Badami. They were patrons of art and architecture and built impressive rock-cut temples, including the famous Cave Temples at Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal.
Kalyani Chalukya:
The Kalyani Chalukya, also known as the Later Chalukyas, rose to power in the 10th century CE under the leadership of Tailapa II. They established their capital in Kalyani (modern-day Basavakalyan in Karnataka) and expanded their kingdom to include parts of present-day Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh.
Vikramaditya VI and Someshvara I:
The Kalyani Chalukya dynasty reached its zenith during the reigns of Vikramaditya VI and his son Someshvara I. They undertook extensive military campaigns, successfully repelling invasions by the Cholas and the Chalukyas of Vengi. They patronized arts, literature, and architecture, and their court was a center of cultural excellence.
Rashtrakuta-Chalukya Conflict:
The Rashtrakutas, another powerful dynasty in the Deccan, emerged as rivals to the Chalukyas. The two dynasties engaged in frequent conflicts for control over the region. The Rashtrakutas eventually gained the upper hand and established their dominance.
Decline and Fragmentation of the Chalukya Dynasty:
After the reign of Someshvara I, the Chalukya dynasty faced internal conflict and external invasions. This led to the fragmentation of the empire into smaller regional kingdoms known as "Feudatories." The dynasty gradually lost its prominence and was eventually absorbed by other emerging powers in the Deccan.
The Chalukya dynasty left a lasting impact on the history and culture of southern India. They were patrons of the arts, with their architectural contributions in the form of temples and sculptures being highly regarded.
Their reign witnessed the development of the Chalukya style of architecture, which influenced subsequent dynasties in the region.
The Chalukyas were also known for their administrative and military capabilities, contributing to the political stability and prosperity of their kingdom.
Rulers of the Chalukya dynasty
The Chalukya dynasty witnessed several rulers across its different branches. Here are some of the notable rulers of the Chalukya dynasty:
Badami Chalukyas[ Capital- Badami/ Vatapi]:
Chalukyas of Badami were the successors of the Vakatakas dynasty in western Deccan. The following are important rulers of Badami Chalukyas-
Pulakeshin I (543-566 CE)
Kirtivarman I (566-597 CE)
Mangalesha (597-609 CE)
Pulakeshin II ( 609-642 CE)
About Pulakeshin II ( 609-642 CE):
Pulakeshin II was the most famous ruler who expanded the kingdom and defeated the Pallavas ( Mahendravarman).
His birth name was Eraya.
He was known for stopping Northern King Harsha.
He was killed by Mahendravarman's son ( Pallava ruler).
He sent an embassy to the Persian King Khusrau II in 625-626 CE.
The Chinese, Hiun Tsand visited the Chalukya kingdom and the court of Pulakeshin II.
Eastern Chalukyas or Vengi Chalukyas [ Capital-Vengi] :
Kubja Vishnuvardhana ( 624-641 CE) - He was the founder of the Eastern Chalukya dynasty.
Jayasimha I ( 641-673 CE)
Vishnuvardhana II (674-686 CE)
Rajaraja Narendra (1022-1061 CE) - He was the last prominent ruler of the Eastern Chalukyas.
Kalyani Chalukyas (Later Chalukyas):
Tailapa I (973-997 CE - He was the founder of the Kalyani Chalukya dynasty.
Jayasimha II (997-1015 CE)
Someshvara I (1042-1068 CE)
Vikramaditya VI (1076-1126 CE)
Someshvara III ( 1126-1138 CE) - He was the last prominent ruler of the Kalyani Chalukyas.
Administration of the Chalukya dynasty:
The Chalukya dynasty had a well-organized administrative system that contributed to its stability and prosperity. Here are some aspects of the administration of the Chalukya dynasty:
Monarchy:
The Chalukyas followed a hereditary monarchy, where the throne passed from one ruler to the next within the royal family. The king held the highest authority and was considered the supreme ruler of the kingdom.
Central Administration:
The central administration was headed by the king or monarch. They were assisted by various officials and ministers who held key administrative positions. These officials advised the king on matters of governance, taxation, justice, and military affairs.
Administrative divisions:
Badami kingdom was known as Maharashtrakas, which were divided into smaller Rashtrakas, which were further divided into Vishaya, which were further divided into Bhoga ( Group of ten villages). Bhoga was also known as Dasagrama.
Revenue Administration:
The revenue administration was crucial for the economic stability of the empire. The Chalukyas implemented a well-structured system of taxation, which included land revenue, customs duties, and trade taxes.
The following different types of taxes were levied by Badami Chalukyas-
- Herjunka: Tax on Loads.
- Kirukula: Tax on retail goods in transit.
- Bilkode: Sales tax
- Pannaya : Betal tax
- Siddaya: Land tax
Justice System:
The Chalukyas had a well-organized judicial system. The king was the supreme authority in matters of justice and appointed judges to preside over courts at various levels. The legal system was based on Dharmashastra, the ancient Hindu legal code, and judgments were made based on principles of fairness and justice.
Military Administration:
The Chalukyas maintained a strong military to defend their kingdom and expand their territory. The king was the supreme commander of the military forces and had a council of experienced generals and advisors to assist in strategic planning. The army consisted of infantry, cavalry, and elephants, and fortifications were built to protect important cities and regions.
Art and culture of Chalukya:
The Chalukya dynasty was known for its vibrant art and culture. They were great patrons of architecture, sculpture, literature, and other artistic endeavors.
The following are some critical aspects of the art and culture of the Chalukyas:
Architecture:
The Chalukyas made significant contributions to temple architecture. They built magnificent stone temples characterized by intricate carvings, elaborate sculptures, and distinct architectural features. The Chalukya style of architecture, known as the "Chalukyan style" or "Karnataka Dravida style," had a profound influence on subsequent architectural developments in the region. Some notable examples of Chalukya temples include those at Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal.
Literature:
The Chalukya period witnessed a flourishing of literature in the Kannada and Sanskrit languages. Many literary works, including epics, poetry, and prose, were composed during this time. The court of the Chalukya kings attracted renowned scholars and poets who contributed to the growth of literature. Poet Ravikirti was the court poet of Pulakesin II, he used Sanskrit language using Kannada script. Some prominent literary figures associated with the Chalukya period include Pampa, Ranna, and Ponna.
Dance and Music:
The Chalukyas were patrons of dance and music, which played an integral role in their cultural pursuits. The art of dance, particularly classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam and Odissi, flourished during this period. Music, including classical Carnatic music, also thrived under the Chalukyas' patronage.
Chalukya temples :
The Chalukya dynasty is renowned for its magnificent temple architecture, and several notable temples were built under their patronage.
Here are some significant Chalukya temples:
Badami Cave Temples:
Located in Badami, Karnataka, these rock-cut cave temples are one of the earliest examples of Chalukya architecture. Carved out of sandstone cliffs, the temples date back to the 6th and 7th centuries CE. The complex consists of four main caves, dedicated to Hindu deities such as Shiva, Vishnu, and Ardhanarishvara. The intricate carvings and sculptures inside the caves showcase the artistry of the Chalukya dynasty.
Virupaksha Temple, Pattadakal:
Pattadakal, also in Karnataka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant center of Chalukya temple architecture. The Virupaksha Temple, built in the 8th century CE, is one of the most impressive structures in Pattadakal. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned for its elaborate carvings, intricate sculptures, and detailed reliefs depicting mythological scenes.
Mallikarjuna Temple, Pattadakal:
Another notable temple in Pattadakal, the Mallikarjuna Temple, built in the 8th century CE, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It features ornate architecture with intricate carvings and sculptures, including depictions of various Hindu gods and goddesses. The tall superstructure and beautiful carvings make it a remarkable example of Chalukya temple architecture.
Ladh Khan Temple, Aihole:
Aihole, also in Karnataka, is known as the "Cradle of Indian Temple Architecture." The Ladh Khan Temple, dating back to the 5th century CE, is one of the earliest Chalukya temples in Aihole. The temple features simple yet elegant architecture, with beautifully carved pillars and sculptures. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
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