 |
| Ancient Amaravati, capital of Satavahanas - Wiki image |
Ancient capital Amaravati is being reborn after 1,800 years.
The ancient capital Satavahanas in its heyday ruled large parts of India and held close sway over present-day Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Karnataka.
Though there are disagreements over the dates, historians believe the empire lasted between 230 BCE to 220 CE, for about about 450 years.
The Sātavāhanas were vassals to the Mauryas, who shot into prominence after their decline. They competed with the Shungas and Kanvas of Magadha to establish their rule and later protected a huge part of India against foreign invaders such as the Sakas, Yavanas and Pahlavas.
Though Sātavāhanas were patrons of Hinduism, Buddhism also spread under their watch. A great stupa was built at Amaravati between the 2nd century BCE and the 3rd century CE.
In the 3rd century CE the Sātavāhanas empire split into smaller states and declined. Amaravati survived as a large village in the Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh, India.
PM Modi laid foundation for the new capital on Thursday at Uddandarayunipalem, which is located around 23 km from the Amaravati village.