Pushyamitra shunga became the ruler of magadha and neighbouring territories.His realm essentially covered the central path of the old Mauryan empire.Shunga had control of Ayodhya in the northern central India. The kushanas were members of the five clans of the Yueh chi tribe and were also called Tocharians

Shungas and Kushanas

The Shungas and Kushanas were two significant dynasties that ruled over ancient India. Let's delve into the details of each dynasty.

Shungas
The Shunga dynasty emerged in the 2nd century BCE after overthrowing the Mauryan Empire. They ruled over the northern and central regions of India for approximately a century. Here are some key points about the Shungas:

1. Origin: The founder of the Shunga dynasty was Pushyamitra Shunga, who was the commander-in-chief of the Mauryan army. He assassinated the last Mauryan ruler, Brihadratha, and established the Shunga Empire.

2. Capital: The capital of the Shunga Empire was initially at Pataliputra (modern-day Patna) and later shifted to Vidisha (near present-day Bhopal).

3. Administrative System: The Shungas followed a centralized administrative system. They divided their empire into provinces ruled by governors known as Rajukas. The provinces were further divided into districts called Vishayas.

4. Buddhist Influence: The Shungas were great patrons of Buddhism. They contributed to the development and spread of Buddhism, constructing numerous stupas and monasteries.

5. Art and Architecture: The Shungas made significant contributions to art and architecture. They built elaborate gateways, pillars, and sculptures adorned with intricate carvings. The most famous examples are the pillars at Bharhut and Sanchi.

Kushanas
The Kushana dynasty rose to power in the 1st century CE and ruled over a vast empire covering present-day India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and parts of Central Asia. Here are some important facts about the Kushanas:

1. Origin: The Kushanas were of Central Asian origin, believed to have descended from the Yuezhi tribe. Their first significant ruler was Kujula Kadphises, who established the dynasty.

2. Capital: The Kushanas established their capital at Peshawar, which was strategically located along the Silk Road trade route.

3. Greek Influence: The Kushanas had strong cultural connections with the Hellenistic world. The rulers adopted Greek titles and patronized Greek art and literature, resulting in a unique Greco-Buddhist art style.

4. Buddhism and Zoroastrianism: While the Kushanas initially followed Zoroastrianism, they later became patrons of Buddhism. They played a significant role in the spread of Buddhism across Central Asia and China.

5. Kanishka the Great: One of the most renowned Kushan rulers was Kanishka the Great. He expanded the empire to its greatest extent and convened the Fourth Buddhist Council in Kashmir.

6. Mathematics and Astronomy: The Kushanas made notable advancements in mathematics and astronomy. They introduced the concept of zero in mathematics and developed the solar calendar.

Both the Shungas and Kushanas played crucial roles in the cultural, political, and religious history of ancient India. Their legacies can be seen in the art, architecture, and religious practices of the time.