Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
The Satavahanas are identified in the Puranas by which one of the following epithets?
Solution & Analysis
Answer: A
Concept
Ancient Indian dynasties are often referred to by different names in royal inscriptions versus religious/literary texts like the Puranas.Explanation
In the Puranas, the Satavahanas are identified as the Andhras (or *Andhrabhrityas*). This epithet likely refers to their geographic origin or their primary base in the Andhra/Deccan region.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: The Puranic king-lists place the 'Andhra' dynasty as successors to the Kanvas.
Logic 2: While they call themselves 'Satavahanas' in their own inscriptions (like at Nanaghat), the literary tradition consistently uses 'Andhra'.
Logic 3: Shakas and Kshatrapas (Options B and C) were their contemporary rivals from Central Asia.