TN History Textbook: South Kingdoms - II (Chalukyas and Rashtrakutas) | Old & New NCERTs for IAS Preparation (Must Read) - UPSC PDF Download

 Page 1


133 132
He fought with the Kadambas of Banavasi and the Gangas of
Mysore and established his suzerainty. Durvinita, the Ganga ruler
accepted his overlordship and even gave his daughter in marriage
to Pulakesin II. Another notable achievement of Pulakesin II was
the defeat of Harshavardhana on the banks of the river Narmada.
He put a check to the ambition of Harsha to conquer the south. In
his first expedition against the Pallavas, Pulakesin II emerged
victorious. But he suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of
Narasimhavarman I near Kanchi. Subsequently, the Chalukya capital
Vatapi was captured and destroyed by the Pallavas. The most
important event in the reign of Pulakesin II was the visit of Hiuen
Tsang to his kingdom.
The successor of Pulakesin II was Vikramaditya. He once again
consolidated the Chalukya kingdom and plundered the Pallava capital,
Kanchi. Thus he had avenged his father’s defeat and death at the hands
of the Pallavas. Kirtivarman II was the last of the rulers of the Chalukyas.
He was defeated by Dantidurga, the founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty.
Administration and Social Life under the Chalukyas
The Chalukya administration was highly centralized unlike that
of the Pallavas and the Cholas. Village autonomy was absent under
the Chalukyas. The Chalukyas had a great maritime power. Pulakesin
II had 100 ships in his navy. They also had a small standing army.
The Badami Chalukyas were Brahmanical Hindus but they
gave respect to other religions. Importance was given to Vedic rites
and rituals. The founder of the dynasty Pulakesin I performed the
asvamedha sacrifice. A number of temples in honour of Vishnu,
Siva and other gods were also built during this period. Hiuen Tsang
mentioned about the decline of Buddhism in western Deccan. But
Jainism was steadily on the path of progress in this region. Ravikirti,
the court poet of Pulakesin II who composed the Aihole inscription
was a Jain.
Besides the Pallavas, the Western Chalukyas and the
Rashtrakutas in the Deccan constitute important political forces.
Both these kingdoms had their rivals in the far south, namely the
Pallavas and later the Cholas. Their period has also been important
in the history of India for their cultural contributions.
Chalukyas (543 – 755 A.D.)
The Western Chalukyas ruled over an extensive area in the
Deccan for about two centuries after which the Rashtrakutas became
powerful. The family of Western Chalukyas had its offshoots like
the Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi and the Chalukyas of Kalyani.
Pulakesin I was the founder of the Chalukya dynasty. He established
a small kingdom with Vatapi or Badami as its capital.
Pulakesin II (608-642 A.D.)
The most important ruler of this dynasty was Pulakesin II.
The Aihole inscription issued by him gives the details of his reign.
LESSON 12
SOUTH INDIAN KINGDOMS – II
CHALUKYAS AND RASHTRAKUTAS
Learning Objectives
Students will acquire knowledge about
1. The achievements of Chalukya ruler Pulakesin II.
2. Administration, social life and art and architecture under
the Chalukyas.
3. Political history of the Rashtrakutas.
4. Administration and society under the Rashtrakutas.
5. Art and architecture of the Rashtrakutas.
Page 2


133 132
He fought with the Kadambas of Banavasi and the Gangas of
Mysore and established his suzerainty. Durvinita, the Ganga ruler
accepted his overlordship and even gave his daughter in marriage
to Pulakesin II. Another notable achievement of Pulakesin II was
the defeat of Harshavardhana on the banks of the river Narmada.
He put a check to the ambition of Harsha to conquer the south. In
his first expedition against the Pallavas, Pulakesin II emerged
victorious. But he suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of
Narasimhavarman I near Kanchi. Subsequently, the Chalukya capital
Vatapi was captured and destroyed by the Pallavas. The most
important event in the reign of Pulakesin II was the visit of Hiuen
Tsang to his kingdom.
The successor of Pulakesin II was Vikramaditya. He once again
consolidated the Chalukya kingdom and plundered the Pallava capital,
Kanchi. Thus he had avenged his father’s defeat and death at the hands
of the Pallavas. Kirtivarman II was the last of the rulers of the Chalukyas.
He was defeated by Dantidurga, the founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty.
Administration and Social Life under the Chalukyas
The Chalukya administration was highly centralized unlike that
of the Pallavas and the Cholas. Village autonomy was absent under
the Chalukyas. The Chalukyas had a great maritime power. Pulakesin
II had 100 ships in his navy. They also had a small standing army.
The Badami Chalukyas were Brahmanical Hindus but they
gave respect to other religions. Importance was given to Vedic rites
and rituals. The founder of the dynasty Pulakesin I performed the
asvamedha sacrifice. A number of temples in honour of Vishnu,
Siva and other gods were also built during this period. Hiuen Tsang
mentioned about the decline of Buddhism in western Deccan. But
Jainism was steadily on the path of progress in this region. Ravikirti,
the court poet of Pulakesin II who composed the Aihole inscription
was a Jain.
Besides the Pallavas, the Western Chalukyas and the
Rashtrakutas in the Deccan constitute important political forces.
Both these kingdoms had their rivals in the far south, namely the
Pallavas and later the Cholas. Their period has also been important
in the history of India for their cultural contributions.
Chalukyas (543 – 755 A.D.)
The Western Chalukyas ruled over an extensive area in the
Deccan for about two centuries after which the Rashtrakutas became
powerful. The family of Western Chalukyas had its offshoots like
the Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi and the Chalukyas of Kalyani.
Pulakesin I was the founder of the Chalukya dynasty. He established
a small kingdom with Vatapi or Badami as its capital.
Pulakesin II (608-642 A.D.)
The most important ruler of this dynasty was Pulakesin II.
The Aihole inscription issued by him gives the details of his reign.
LESSON 12
SOUTH INDIAN KINGDOMS – II
CHALUKYAS AND RASHTRAKUTAS
Learning Objectives
Students will acquire knowledge about
1. The achievements of Chalukya ruler Pulakesin II.
2. Administration, social life and art and architecture under
the Chalukyas.
3. Political history of the Rashtrakutas.
4. Administration and society under the Rashtrakutas.
5. Art and architecture of the Rashtrakutas.
135 134
The second stage is
represented by the temples at
Pattadakal. There are ten temples
here, four in the northern style and
the remaining six in the Dravidian
style. The Papanatha temple is the
most notable in the northern style.
The Sangamesvara temple and the
Virupaksha temple are famous for their Dravidian style. The
Virupaksha temple is built on the model of the Kailasanatha temple
at Kanchipuram. It was built by one of the queens of Vikramaditya
II. Sculptors brought from Kanchi were employed in its construction.
Rashtrakutas (755 – 975 A.D.)
The Rashtrakutas were of Kannada origin and Kannada
language was their mother tongue. Dantidurga was the founder of
the Rashtrakuta dynasty. He defeated the Gurjaras and captured
Malwa from them. Then he annexed the Chalukya kingdom by
defeating Kirtivarman II. Thus, the Rashtrakutas became a
paramount power in the Deccan.
His successor Krishna I was also a great conqueror. He
defeated the Gangas and the eastern Chalukyas of Vengi. He built
the magnificent rock-cut monolithic Kailasa temple at Ellora. The
next important king of this dynasty was Govinda III. He achieved
victories over north Indian kingdoms.
His successor Amoghavarsha I (815- 880 A.D.) ruled for a
long period of 64 years. He had lost control over Malwa and
Gangavadi. Yet, his reign was popular for the cultural development.
He was a follower of Jainism. Jinasena was his chief preceptor. He
was also a patron of letters and he himself wrote the famous Kannada
work, Kavirajamarga. He had also built the Rashtrakuta capital,
the city of Malkhed or Manyakheda.
 
Virupaksha temple at
Pattadakkal
Art and Architecture
The Chalukyas were great patrons
of art. They developed the vesara style
in the building of structural temples.
However, the vesara style reached its
culmination only under the Rashtrakutas
and the Hoysalas. The structural temples
of the Chalukyas exist at Aihole, Badami
and Pattadakal. Cave temple architecture was also famous under the
Chalukyas. Their cave temples are found in Ajanta, Ellora and Nasik.
The best specimens of Chalukya paintings can be seen in the Badami
cave temple and in the Ajanta caves. The reception given to a Persian
embassy by Pulakesin II is depicted in a painting at Ajantha.
The Chalukya temples may be divided into two stages. The
first stage is represented by the temples at Aihole and Badami.
Among the seventy temples found at Aihole, four are important.
1. Ladh Khan temple is a low, flat-roofed structure
consisting of a pillared hall.
2. Durga temple resembles a Buddha Chaitya.
3. Huchimalligudi temple.
4. The Jain temple at Meguti.
Among the temples at Badami,
the Muktheeswara temple and the
Melagutti Sivalaya are notable for
their architectural beauty. A group of
four rock-cut temples at Badami are
marked by high workmanship. The
walls and pillared halls are adorned
by beautiful images of gods and
human beings.
CAVE TEMPLE AT AJANTA 
 
Cave Temple at Badami
Page 3


133 132
He fought with the Kadambas of Banavasi and the Gangas of
Mysore and established his suzerainty. Durvinita, the Ganga ruler
accepted his overlordship and even gave his daughter in marriage
to Pulakesin II. Another notable achievement of Pulakesin II was
the defeat of Harshavardhana on the banks of the river Narmada.
He put a check to the ambition of Harsha to conquer the south. In
his first expedition against the Pallavas, Pulakesin II emerged
victorious. But he suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of
Narasimhavarman I near Kanchi. Subsequently, the Chalukya capital
Vatapi was captured and destroyed by the Pallavas. The most
important event in the reign of Pulakesin II was the visit of Hiuen
Tsang to his kingdom.
The successor of Pulakesin II was Vikramaditya. He once again
consolidated the Chalukya kingdom and plundered the Pallava capital,
Kanchi. Thus he had avenged his father’s defeat and death at the hands
of the Pallavas. Kirtivarman II was the last of the rulers of the Chalukyas.
He was defeated by Dantidurga, the founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty.
Administration and Social Life under the Chalukyas
The Chalukya administration was highly centralized unlike that
of the Pallavas and the Cholas. Village autonomy was absent under
the Chalukyas. The Chalukyas had a great maritime power. Pulakesin
II had 100 ships in his navy. They also had a small standing army.
The Badami Chalukyas were Brahmanical Hindus but they
gave respect to other religions. Importance was given to Vedic rites
and rituals. The founder of the dynasty Pulakesin I performed the
asvamedha sacrifice. A number of temples in honour of Vishnu,
Siva and other gods were also built during this period. Hiuen Tsang
mentioned about the decline of Buddhism in western Deccan. But
Jainism was steadily on the path of progress in this region. Ravikirti,
the court poet of Pulakesin II who composed the Aihole inscription
was a Jain.
Besides the Pallavas, the Western Chalukyas and the
Rashtrakutas in the Deccan constitute important political forces.
Both these kingdoms had their rivals in the far south, namely the
Pallavas and later the Cholas. Their period has also been important
in the history of India for their cultural contributions.
Chalukyas (543 – 755 A.D.)
The Western Chalukyas ruled over an extensive area in the
Deccan for about two centuries after which the Rashtrakutas became
powerful. The family of Western Chalukyas had its offshoots like
the Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi and the Chalukyas of Kalyani.
Pulakesin I was the founder of the Chalukya dynasty. He established
a small kingdom with Vatapi or Badami as its capital.
Pulakesin II (608-642 A.D.)
The most important ruler of this dynasty was Pulakesin II.
The Aihole inscription issued by him gives the details of his reign.
LESSON 12
SOUTH INDIAN KINGDOMS – II
CHALUKYAS AND RASHTRAKUTAS
Learning Objectives
Students will acquire knowledge about
1. The achievements of Chalukya ruler Pulakesin II.
2. Administration, social life and art and architecture under
the Chalukyas.
3. Political history of the Rashtrakutas.
4. Administration and society under the Rashtrakutas.
5. Art and architecture of the Rashtrakutas.
135 134
The second stage is
represented by the temples at
Pattadakal. There are ten temples
here, four in the northern style and
the remaining six in the Dravidian
style. The Papanatha temple is the
most notable in the northern style.
The Sangamesvara temple and the
Virupaksha temple are famous for their Dravidian style. The
Virupaksha temple is built on the model of the Kailasanatha temple
at Kanchipuram. It was built by one of the queens of Vikramaditya
II. Sculptors brought from Kanchi were employed in its construction.
Rashtrakutas (755 – 975 A.D.)
The Rashtrakutas were of Kannada origin and Kannada
language was their mother tongue. Dantidurga was the founder of
the Rashtrakuta dynasty. He defeated the Gurjaras and captured
Malwa from them. Then he annexed the Chalukya kingdom by
defeating Kirtivarman II. Thus, the Rashtrakutas became a
paramount power in the Deccan.
His successor Krishna I was also a great conqueror. He
defeated the Gangas and the eastern Chalukyas of Vengi. He built
the magnificent rock-cut monolithic Kailasa temple at Ellora. The
next important king of this dynasty was Govinda III. He achieved
victories over north Indian kingdoms.
His successor Amoghavarsha I (815- 880 A.D.) ruled for a
long period of 64 years. He had lost control over Malwa and
Gangavadi. Yet, his reign was popular for the cultural development.
He was a follower of Jainism. Jinasena was his chief preceptor. He
was also a patron of letters and he himself wrote the famous Kannada
work, Kavirajamarga. He had also built the Rashtrakuta capital,
the city of Malkhed or Manyakheda.
 
Virupaksha temple at
Pattadakkal
Art and Architecture
The Chalukyas were great patrons
of art. They developed the vesara style
in the building of structural temples.
However, the vesara style reached its
culmination only under the Rashtrakutas
and the Hoysalas. The structural temples
of the Chalukyas exist at Aihole, Badami
and Pattadakal. Cave temple architecture was also famous under the
Chalukyas. Their cave temples are found in Ajanta, Ellora and Nasik.
The best specimens of Chalukya paintings can be seen in the Badami
cave temple and in the Ajanta caves. The reception given to a Persian
embassy by Pulakesin II is depicted in a painting at Ajantha.
The Chalukya temples may be divided into two stages. The
first stage is represented by the temples at Aihole and Badami.
Among the seventy temples found at Aihole, four are important.
1. Ladh Khan temple is a low, flat-roofed structure
consisting of a pillared hall.
2. Durga temple resembles a Buddha Chaitya.
3. Huchimalligudi temple.
4. The Jain temple at Meguti.
Among the temples at Badami,
the Muktheeswara temple and the
Melagutti Sivalaya are notable for
their architectural beauty. A group of
four rock-cut temples at Badami are
marked by high workmanship. The
walls and pillared halls are adorned
by beautiful images of gods and
human beings.
CAVE TEMPLE AT AJANTA 
 
Cave Temple at Badami
137 136
Cultural Contributions
The Rashtrakutas widely patronized the Sanskrit literature.
There were many scholars in the Rashtrakuta court. Trivikrama wrote
Nalachampu and the Kavirahasya was composed by Halayudha
during the reign of Krishna III. The Jain literature flourished under
the patronage of the Rashtrakutas. Amogavarsha I, who was a Jain
patronized many Jain scholars. His teacher Jinasena composed
Parsvabhudaya, a biography of Parsva in verses. Another scholar
Gunabhadra wrote the Adipurana, the life stories of various Jain
saints. Sakatayana wrote the grammer work called Amogavritti.
The great mathematician of this period, Viracharya was the author
of Ganitasaram.
The Kannada literature saw its beginning during the period of
the Rashtrakutas. Amogavarsha’s Kavirajamarga was the first
poetic work in Kannada language. Pampa was the greatest of the
Kannada poets. His famous work was
Vikramasenavijaya. Ponna was another
famous Kannada poet and he wrote
Santipurana.
Art and Architecture
The art and architecture of the
Rashtrakutas were found at Ellora and
Elephanta. At Ellora, the most remarkable
temple is the Kailasa temple. It was excavated
during the reign of Krishna I. It is carved out of
a massive block of rock 200 feet long, and 100
feet in breadth and height. The temple consists
of four parts - the main shrine, the entrance gateway, an intermediate
shrine for Nandi and mandapa surrounding the courtyard. The temple
stands on a lofty plinth 25 feet high. The central face of the plinth has
KAILASA TEMPLE
AT ELLORA
Among the successors of Amoghavarsha I, Krishna III (936-
968 A.D.) was famous for his expeditions. He marched against the
Cholas and defeated them at Takkolam. He marched further south
and captured Tanjore. He went as far as Rameswaram and occupied
it for sometime. He built several temples in the conquered territories
including the Krishneswara temple at Rameswaram. Throughout his
reign he possessed the Tondaimandalam region including the capital
Kanchi. After his death, the power of the Rashtrakutas declined.
Administration
The Rashtrakuta Empire was divided into several provinces called
rashtras under the control of rashtrapatis. They were further divided
into vishayas or districts governed by vishayapatis. The next
subdivision was bhukti consisting of 50 to 70 villages under the control
of bhogapatis. These officers were directly appointed by the central
government. The village administration was carried on by the village
headmen. However, the village assemblies played a significant role in
the village administration.
Society and Economy
The Hindu sects of V aishnavism and Saivism flourished during
the period of Rashtrakutas. Yet, they did not affect the progress of
Jainism under the patronage of Rashtrakuta kings and officers. Almost
one third of the population of the Deccan were Jains. There were some
prosperous Buddhist settlements at places like Kanheri, Sholapur and
Dharwar. There was harmony among various religions. There was a
college at Salatogi, situated in modern Bijapur district. An inscription
gives details of this educational centre. It was run by the income from
the endowments made by the rich as well as by all the villagers on
occasions of functions and festivals.
The economy was also in a flourishing condition. There was an
active commerce between the Deccan and the Arabs. The Rashtrakuta
kings promoted the Arab trade by maintaining friendship with them.
Page 4


133 132
He fought with the Kadambas of Banavasi and the Gangas of
Mysore and established his suzerainty. Durvinita, the Ganga ruler
accepted his overlordship and even gave his daughter in marriage
to Pulakesin II. Another notable achievement of Pulakesin II was
the defeat of Harshavardhana on the banks of the river Narmada.
He put a check to the ambition of Harsha to conquer the south. In
his first expedition against the Pallavas, Pulakesin II emerged
victorious. But he suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of
Narasimhavarman I near Kanchi. Subsequently, the Chalukya capital
Vatapi was captured and destroyed by the Pallavas. The most
important event in the reign of Pulakesin II was the visit of Hiuen
Tsang to his kingdom.
The successor of Pulakesin II was Vikramaditya. He once again
consolidated the Chalukya kingdom and plundered the Pallava capital,
Kanchi. Thus he had avenged his father’s defeat and death at the hands
of the Pallavas. Kirtivarman II was the last of the rulers of the Chalukyas.
He was defeated by Dantidurga, the founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty.
Administration and Social Life under the Chalukyas
The Chalukya administration was highly centralized unlike that
of the Pallavas and the Cholas. Village autonomy was absent under
the Chalukyas. The Chalukyas had a great maritime power. Pulakesin
II had 100 ships in his navy. They also had a small standing army.
The Badami Chalukyas were Brahmanical Hindus but they
gave respect to other religions. Importance was given to Vedic rites
and rituals. The founder of the dynasty Pulakesin I performed the
asvamedha sacrifice. A number of temples in honour of Vishnu,
Siva and other gods were also built during this period. Hiuen Tsang
mentioned about the decline of Buddhism in western Deccan. But
Jainism was steadily on the path of progress in this region. Ravikirti,
the court poet of Pulakesin II who composed the Aihole inscription
was a Jain.
Besides the Pallavas, the Western Chalukyas and the
Rashtrakutas in the Deccan constitute important political forces.
Both these kingdoms had their rivals in the far south, namely the
Pallavas and later the Cholas. Their period has also been important
in the history of India for their cultural contributions.
Chalukyas (543 – 755 A.D.)
The Western Chalukyas ruled over an extensive area in the
Deccan for about two centuries after which the Rashtrakutas became
powerful. The family of Western Chalukyas had its offshoots like
the Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi and the Chalukyas of Kalyani.
Pulakesin I was the founder of the Chalukya dynasty. He established
a small kingdom with Vatapi or Badami as its capital.
Pulakesin II (608-642 A.D.)
The most important ruler of this dynasty was Pulakesin II.
The Aihole inscription issued by him gives the details of his reign.
LESSON 12
SOUTH INDIAN KINGDOMS – II
CHALUKYAS AND RASHTRAKUTAS
Learning Objectives
Students will acquire knowledge about
1. The achievements of Chalukya ruler Pulakesin II.
2. Administration, social life and art and architecture under
the Chalukyas.
3. Political history of the Rashtrakutas.
4. Administration and society under the Rashtrakutas.
5. Art and architecture of the Rashtrakutas.
135 134
The second stage is
represented by the temples at
Pattadakal. There are ten temples
here, four in the northern style and
the remaining six in the Dravidian
style. The Papanatha temple is the
most notable in the northern style.
The Sangamesvara temple and the
Virupaksha temple are famous for their Dravidian style. The
Virupaksha temple is built on the model of the Kailasanatha temple
at Kanchipuram. It was built by one of the queens of Vikramaditya
II. Sculptors brought from Kanchi were employed in its construction.
Rashtrakutas (755 – 975 A.D.)
The Rashtrakutas were of Kannada origin and Kannada
language was their mother tongue. Dantidurga was the founder of
the Rashtrakuta dynasty. He defeated the Gurjaras and captured
Malwa from them. Then he annexed the Chalukya kingdom by
defeating Kirtivarman II. Thus, the Rashtrakutas became a
paramount power in the Deccan.
His successor Krishna I was also a great conqueror. He
defeated the Gangas and the eastern Chalukyas of Vengi. He built
the magnificent rock-cut monolithic Kailasa temple at Ellora. The
next important king of this dynasty was Govinda III. He achieved
victories over north Indian kingdoms.
His successor Amoghavarsha I (815- 880 A.D.) ruled for a
long period of 64 years. He had lost control over Malwa and
Gangavadi. Yet, his reign was popular for the cultural development.
He was a follower of Jainism. Jinasena was his chief preceptor. He
was also a patron of letters and he himself wrote the famous Kannada
work, Kavirajamarga. He had also built the Rashtrakuta capital,
the city of Malkhed or Manyakheda.
 
Virupaksha temple at
Pattadakkal
Art and Architecture
The Chalukyas were great patrons
of art. They developed the vesara style
in the building of structural temples.
However, the vesara style reached its
culmination only under the Rashtrakutas
and the Hoysalas. The structural temples
of the Chalukyas exist at Aihole, Badami
and Pattadakal. Cave temple architecture was also famous under the
Chalukyas. Their cave temples are found in Ajanta, Ellora and Nasik.
The best specimens of Chalukya paintings can be seen in the Badami
cave temple and in the Ajanta caves. The reception given to a Persian
embassy by Pulakesin II is depicted in a painting at Ajantha.
The Chalukya temples may be divided into two stages. The
first stage is represented by the temples at Aihole and Badami.
Among the seventy temples found at Aihole, four are important.
1. Ladh Khan temple is a low, flat-roofed structure
consisting of a pillared hall.
2. Durga temple resembles a Buddha Chaitya.
3. Huchimalligudi temple.
4. The Jain temple at Meguti.
Among the temples at Badami,
the Muktheeswara temple and the
Melagutti Sivalaya are notable for
their architectural beauty. A group of
four rock-cut temples at Badami are
marked by high workmanship. The
walls and pillared halls are adorned
by beautiful images of gods and
human beings.
CAVE TEMPLE AT AJANTA 
 
Cave Temple at Badami
137 136
Cultural Contributions
The Rashtrakutas widely patronized the Sanskrit literature.
There were many scholars in the Rashtrakuta court. Trivikrama wrote
Nalachampu and the Kavirahasya was composed by Halayudha
during the reign of Krishna III. The Jain literature flourished under
the patronage of the Rashtrakutas. Amogavarsha I, who was a Jain
patronized many Jain scholars. His teacher Jinasena composed
Parsvabhudaya, a biography of Parsva in verses. Another scholar
Gunabhadra wrote the Adipurana, the life stories of various Jain
saints. Sakatayana wrote the grammer work called Amogavritti.
The great mathematician of this period, Viracharya was the author
of Ganitasaram.
The Kannada literature saw its beginning during the period of
the Rashtrakutas. Amogavarsha’s Kavirajamarga was the first
poetic work in Kannada language. Pampa was the greatest of the
Kannada poets. His famous work was
Vikramasenavijaya. Ponna was another
famous Kannada poet and he wrote
Santipurana.
Art and Architecture
The art and architecture of the
Rashtrakutas were found at Ellora and
Elephanta. At Ellora, the most remarkable
temple is the Kailasa temple. It was excavated
during the reign of Krishna I. It is carved out of
a massive block of rock 200 feet long, and 100
feet in breadth and height. The temple consists
of four parts - the main shrine, the entrance gateway, an intermediate
shrine for Nandi and mandapa surrounding the courtyard. The temple
stands on a lofty plinth 25 feet high. The central face of the plinth has
KAILASA TEMPLE
AT ELLORA
Among the successors of Amoghavarsha I, Krishna III (936-
968 A.D.) was famous for his expeditions. He marched against the
Cholas and defeated them at Takkolam. He marched further south
and captured Tanjore. He went as far as Rameswaram and occupied
it for sometime. He built several temples in the conquered territories
including the Krishneswara temple at Rameswaram. Throughout his
reign he possessed the Tondaimandalam region including the capital
Kanchi. After his death, the power of the Rashtrakutas declined.
Administration
The Rashtrakuta Empire was divided into several provinces called
rashtras under the control of rashtrapatis. They were further divided
into vishayas or districts governed by vishayapatis. The next
subdivision was bhukti consisting of 50 to 70 villages under the control
of bhogapatis. These officers were directly appointed by the central
government. The village administration was carried on by the village
headmen. However, the village assemblies played a significant role in
the village administration.
Society and Economy
The Hindu sects of V aishnavism and Saivism flourished during
the period of Rashtrakutas. Yet, they did not affect the progress of
Jainism under the patronage of Rashtrakuta kings and officers. Almost
one third of the population of the Deccan were Jains. There were some
prosperous Buddhist settlements at places like Kanheri, Sholapur and
Dharwar. There was harmony among various religions. There was a
college at Salatogi, situated in modern Bijapur district. An inscription
gives details of this educational centre. It was run by the income from
the endowments made by the rich as well as by all the villagers on
occasions of functions and festivals.
The economy was also in a flourishing condition. There was an
active commerce between the Deccan and the Arabs. The Rashtrakuta
kings promoted the Arab trade by maintaining friendship with them.
139 138
MODEL QUESTIONS
I. Choose the correct answer.
1. Aihole inscription was issued by
(a) Amoghavarsha I (b) Pulakesin II
(c) Govinda III (d) Dantidurga
2. Who among the following defeated the Cholas at Takkolam?
(a) Pulakesin II (b) Amoghavarsha I
(c) Vikramaditya I (d) Krishna III
II. Fill in the blanks.
1. …… was the capital of Rashtrakutas.
2. The founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty was …..
3. Sripuri was renamed as Elephanta by ……
III. Match the following.
1. Ravikirti a) Vikramasenavijaya
2. Amoghavarsha I b) Ganitasaram
3. Pampa c) Aihole inscription
4. Viracharya d) Kavirajamarga
IV. Find out the correct statement. One statement alone is
right.
a) Ellora is an island near Bombay.
b) The Kailasa temple is at Ellora.
c) The temples at Ellora were built during the Chalukya rule.
d) The Kailasa temple at Ellora was built by Pulakesin II.
imposing figures of elephants and lions giving the impression that the
entire structure rests on their back. It has a three-tiered sikhara or
tower resembling the sikhara of the Mamallapuram rathas. In the
interior of the temple there is a pillared hall which has sixteen square
pillars. The Kailasa temple is an architectural marvel with it beautiful
sculptures. The sculpture of the Goddess Durga is shown as slaying the
Buffalo demon. In another sculpture Ravana was making attempts to
lift Mount Kailasa, the abode of Siva. The scenes of Ramayana were
also depicted on the walls. The general characteristics of the Kailasa
temple are more Dravidian.
Elephanta is an island near Bombay. It was originally called
Sripuri. The Portuguese after seeing the large figure of an elephant named
it Elephanta. The sculptural art of the Rashtrakutas reached its zenith in
this place. There is a close similarity between the sculptures at Ellora
and those in Elephanta. They might have been carved by the same
craftsmen. At the entrance to the sanctum there are huge figures of
dwara-palakas. In the walls of the prakara around the sanctum there
are niches containing the images of Shiva in various forms - Nataraja,
Gangadhara, Ardhanareesvara and  Somaskanda. The most imposing
figure of this temple is Trimurthi. The sculpture is six metre high. It is
said to represent the three aspects of Shiva as Creator, Preserver and
Destroyer.
Learning Outcome
After learning this lesson the students will be able to explain
1. The political history of the Chalukyas of Badami.
2. Art and architecture of the Chalukyas.
3. Achievements of the Rashtrakuta rulers.
4. Cultural contributions of the Rashtrakutas.
5. Literary developments during the Rashtrakuta rule.
Page 5


133 132
He fought with the Kadambas of Banavasi and the Gangas of
Mysore and established his suzerainty. Durvinita, the Ganga ruler
accepted his overlordship and even gave his daughter in marriage
to Pulakesin II. Another notable achievement of Pulakesin II was
the defeat of Harshavardhana on the banks of the river Narmada.
He put a check to the ambition of Harsha to conquer the south. In
his first expedition against the Pallavas, Pulakesin II emerged
victorious. But he suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of
Narasimhavarman I near Kanchi. Subsequently, the Chalukya capital
Vatapi was captured and destroyed by the Pallavas. The most
important event in the reign of Pulakesin II was the visit of Hiuen
Tsang to his kingdom.
The successor of Pulakesin II was Vikramaditya. He once again
consolidated the Chalukya kingdom and plundered the Pallava capital,
Kanchi. Thus he had avenged his father’s defeat and death at the hands
of the Pallavas. Kirtivarman II was the last of the rulers of the Chalukyas.
He was defeated by Dantidurga, the founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty.
Administration and Social Life under the Chalukyas
The Chalukya administration was highly centralized unlike that
of the Pallavas and the Cholas. Village autonomy was absent under
the Chalukyas. The Chalukyas had a great maritime power. Pulakesin
II had 100 ships in his navy. They also had a small standing army.
The Badami Chalukyas were Brahmanical Hindus but they
gave respect to other religions. Importance was given to Vedic rites
and rituals. The founder of the dynasty Pulakesin I performed the
asvamedha sacrifice. A number of temples in honour of Vishnu,
Siva and other gods were also built during this period. Hiuen Tsang
mentioned about the decline of Buddhism in western Deccan. But
Jainism was steadily on the path of progress in this region. Ravikirti,
the court poet of Pulakesin II who composed the Aihole inscription
was a Jain.
Besides the Pallavas, the Western Chalukyas and the
Rashtrakutas in the Deccan constitute important political forces.
Both these kingdoms had their rivals in the far south, namely the
Pallavas and later the Cholas. Their period has also been important
in the history of India for their cultural contributions.
Chalukyas (543 – 755 A.D.)
The Western Chalukyas ruled over an extensive area in the
Deccan for about two centuries after which the Rashtrakutas became
powerful. The family of Western Chalukyas had its offshoots like
the Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi and the Chalukyas of Kalyani.
Pulakesin I was the founder of the Chalukya dynasty. He established
a small kingdom with Vatapi or Badami as its capital.
Pulakesin II (608-642 A.D.)
The most important ruler of this dynasty was Pulakesin II.
The Aihole inscription issued by him gives the details of his reign.
LESSON 12
SOUTH INDIAN KINGDOMS – II
CHALUKYAS AND RASHTRAKUTAS
Learning Objectives
Students will acquire knowledge about
1. The achievements of Chalukya ruler Pulakesin II.
2. Administration, social life and art and architecture under
the Chalukyas.
3. Political history of the Rashtrakutas.
4. Administration and society under the Rashtrakutas.
5. Art and architecture of the Rashtrakutas.
135 134
The second stage is
represented by the temples at
Pattadakal. There are ten temples
here, four in the northern style and
the remaining six in the Dravidian
style. The Papanatha temple is the
most notable in the northern style.
The Sangamesvara temple and the
Virupaksha temple are famous for their Dravidian style. The
Virupaksha temple is built on the model of the Kailasanatha temple
at Kanchipuram. It was built by one of the queens of Vikramaditya
II. Sculptors brought from Kanchi were employed in its construction.
Rashtrakutas (755 – 975 A.D.)
The Rashtrakutas were of Kannada origin and Kannada
language was their mother tongue. Dantidurga was the founder of
the Rashtrakuta dynasty. He defeated the Gurjaras and captured
Malwa from them. Then he annexed the Chalukya kingdom by
defeating Kirtivarman II. Thus, the Rashtrakutas became a
paramount power in the Deccan.
His successor Krishna I was also a great conqueror. He
defeated the Gangas and the eastern Chalukyas of Vengi. He built
the magnificent rock-cut monolithic Kailasa temple at Ellora. The
next important king of this dynasty was Govinda III. He achieved
victories over north Indian kingdoms.
His successor Amoghavarsha I (815- 880 A.D.) ruled for a
long period of 64 years. He had lost control over Malwa and
Gangavadi. Yet, his reign was popular for the cultural development.
He was a follower of Jainism. Jinasena was his chief preceptor. He
was also a patron of letters and he himself wrote the famous Kannada
work, Kavirajamarga. He had also built the Rashtrakuta capital,
the city of Malkhed or Manyakheda.
 
Virupaksha temple at
Pattadakkal
Art and Architecture
The Chalukyas were great patrons
of art. They developed the vesara style
in the building of structural temples.
However, the vesara style reached its
culmination only under the Rashtrakutas
and the Hoysalas. The structural temples
of the Chalukyas exist at Aihole, Badami
and Pattadakal. Cave temple architecture was also famous under the
Chalukyas. Their cave temples are found in Ajanta, Ellora and Nasik.
The best specimens of Chalukya paintings can be seen in the Badami
cave temple and in the Ajanta caves. The reception given to a Persian
embassy by Pulakesin II is depicted in a painting at Ajantha.
The Chalukya temples may be divided into two stages. The
first stage is represented by the temples at Aihole and Badami.
Among the seventy temples found at Aihole, four are important.
1. Ladh Khan temple is a low, flat-roofed structure
consisting of a pillared hall.
2. Durga temple resembles a Buddha Chaitya.
3. Huchimalligudi temple.
4. The Jain temple at Meguti.
Among the temples at Badami,
the Muktheeswara temple and the
Melagutti Sivalaya are notable for
their architectural beauty. A group of
four rock-cut temples at Badami are
marked by high workmanship. The
walls and pillared halls are adorned
by beautiful images of gods and
human beings.
CAVE TEMPLE AT AJANTA 
 
Cave Temple at Badami
137 136
Cultural Contributions
The Rashtrakutas widely patronized the Sanskrit literature.
There were many scholars in the Rashtrakuta court. Trivikrama wrote
Nalachampu and the Kavirahasya was composed by Halayudha
during the reign of Krishna III. The Jain literature flourished under
the patronage of the Rashtrakutas. Amogavarsha I, who was a Jain
patronized many Jain scholars. His teacher Jinasena composed
Parsvabhudaya, a biography of Parsva in verses. Another scholar
Gunabhadra wrote the Adipurana, the life stories of various Jain
saints. Sakatayana wrote the grammer work called Amogavritti.
The great mathematician of this period, Viracharya was the author
of Ganitasaram.
The Kannada literature saw its beginning during the period of
the Rashtrakutas. Amogavarsha’s Kavirajamarga was the first
poetic work in Kannada language. Pampa was the greatest of the
Kannada poets. His famous work was
Vikramasenavijaya. Ponna was another
famous Kannada poet and he wrote
Santipurana.
Art and Architecture
The art and architecture of the
Rashtrakutas were found at Ellora and
Elephanta. At Ellora, the most remarkable
temple is the Kailasa temple. It was excavated
during the reign of Krishna I. It is carved out of
a massive block of rock 200 feet long, and 100
feet in breadth and height. The temple consists
of four parts - the main shrine, the entrance gateway, an intermediate
shrine for Nandi and mandapa surrounding the courtyard. The temple
stands on a lofty plinth 25 feet high. The central face of the plinth has
KAILASA TEMPLE
AT ELLORA
Among the successors of Amoghavarsha I, Krishna III (936-
968 A.D.) was famous for his expeditions. He marched against the
Cholas and defeated them at Takkolam. He marched further south
and captured Tanjore. He went as far as Rameswaram and occupied
it for sometime. He built several temples in the conquered territories
including the Krishneswara temple at Rameswaram. Throughout his
reign he possessed the Tondaimandalam region including the capital
Kanchi. After his death, the power of the Rashtrakutas declined.
Administration
The Rashtrakuta Empire was divided into several provinces called
rashtras under the control of rashtrapatis. They were further divided
into vishayas or districts governed by vishayapatis. The next
subdivision was bhukti consisting of 50 to 70 villages under the control
of bhogapatis. These officers were directly appointed by the central
government. The village administration was carried on by the village
headmen. However, the village assemblies played a significant role in
the village administration.
Society and Economy
The Hindu sects of V aishnavism and Saivism flourished during
the period of Rashtrakutas. Yet, they did not affect the progress of
Jainism under the patronage of Rashtrakuta kings and officers. Almost
one third of the population of the Deccan were Jains. There were some
prosperous Buddhist settlements at places like Kanheri, Sholapur and
Dharwar. There was harmony among various religions. There was a
college at Salatogi, situated in modern Bijapur district. An inscription
gives details of this educational centre. It was run by the income from
the endowments made by the rich as well as by all the villagers on
occasions of functions and festivals.
The economy was also in a flourishing condition. There was an
active commerce between the Deccan and the Arabs. The Rashtrakuta
kings promoted the Arab trade by maintaining friendship with them.
139 138
MODEL QUESTIONS
I. Choose the correct answer.
1. Aihole inscription was issued by
(a) Amoghavarsha I (b) Pulakesin II
(c) Govinda III (d) Dantidurga
2. Who among the following defeated the Cholas at Takkolam?
(a) Pulakesin II (b) Amoghavarsha I
(c) Vikramaditya I (d) Krishna III
II. Fill in the blanks.
1. …… was the capital of Rashtrakutas.
2. The founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty was …..
3. Sripuri was renamed as Elephanta by ……
III. Match the following.
1. Ravikirti a) Vikramasenavijaya
2. Amoghavarsha I b) Ganitasaram
3. Pampa c) Aihole inscription
4. Viracharya d) Kavirajamarga
IV. Find out the correct statement. One statement alone is
right.
a) Ellora is an island near Bombay.
b) The Kailasa temple is at Ellora.
c) The temples at Ellora were built during the Chalukya rule.
d) The Kailasa temple at Ellora was built by Pulakesin II.
imposing figures of elephants and lions giving the impression that the
entire structure rests on their back. It has a three-tiered sikhara or
tower resembling the sikhara of the Mamallapuram rathas. In the
interior of the temple there is a pillared hall which has sixteen square
pillars. The Kailasa temple is an architectural marvel with it beautiful
sculptures. The sculpture of the Goddess Durga is shown as slaying the
Buffalo demon. In another sculpture Ravana was making attempts to
lift Mount Kailasa, the abode of Siva. The scenes of Ramayana were
also depicted on the walls. The general characteristics of the Kailasa
temple are more Dravidian.
Elephanta is an island near Bombay. It was originally called
Sripuri. The Portuguese after seeing the large figure of an elephant named
it Elephanta. The sculptural art of the Rashtrakutas reached its zenith in
this place. There is a close similarity between the sculptures at Ellora
and those in Elephanta. They might have been carved by the same
craftsmen. At the entrance to the sanctum there are huge figures of
dwara-palakas. In the walls of the prakara around the sanctum there
are niches containing the images of Shiva in various forms - Nataraja,
Gangadhara, Ardhanareesvara and  Somaskanda. The most imposing
figure of this temple is Trimurthi. The sculpture is six metre high. It is
said to represent the three aspects of Shiva as Creator, Preserver and
Destroyer.
Learning Outcome
After learning this lesson the students will be able to explain
1. The political history of the Chalukyas of Badami.
2. Art and architecture of the Chalukyas.
3. Achievements of the Rashtrakuta rulers.
4. Cultural contributions of the Rashtrakutas.
5. Literary developments during the Rashtrakuta rule.
140
V. State whether the following statements are True or
False.
1. iuen Tsang visited the Deccan during the reign of
Amoghavarsha I.
2. The beginning of Kannada literature commenced during the
Rashtrakuta rule.
3. Dantidurga was the last ruler of the Chalukyas.
VI. Write short notes (Any three points).
1. Aihole inscription
2. Pattadakal
3. Ellora
4. Elephanta
VII. Answer briefly (100 words).
1. Give a brief account of the achievements of Pulakesin II.
2. Give an estimate of Amoghavarsha I.
VIII. Answer in detail (200 words).
1. Give an account of the development of art and architecture
under the Chalukyas of Badami.
2. Evaluate the cultural contributions of the Rashtrakutas.