Post Mauryan Period
Post Mauryan India There are multiple causes for the decline of the Mauryan empire such as weak successors, the partition of the empire, and administrative abuses after Ashoka's reign. After the death of Ashoka, his successors were not able to keep the vast Mauryan Empire intact. Kalinga declared its independence and in the farther south, the Satavahanas established their independent rule. Sunga and Kanvas The founder of the Sunga dynasty was Pushyamitra Sunga , who was the commander-in-chief under the Mauryas. He ascended the throne of Magadha in 185 B.C . Pushyamitra was a staunch follower of Brahmanism. He performed two ashawamedh sacrifices. After the death of Pushyamitra, his son Agnimitra was a great conqueror. He was also the hero of the play Malavikagnimitram written by Kalidasa. During their rule, there was a revival of Brahminical influence. The Bhagavata religion became important. 'Patanjali, the author of the 'Mahabhasya',