Who was the founder of the Shunga Dynasty in India?

The correct answer is Pushyamitra.

Key Points

• Pushyamitra Shunga was the founder and first ruler of the Shunga Dynasty in India.
• He established the Shunga Dynasty around 185 BCE after assassinating the last Mauryan king, Brihadratha.
• Pushyamitra was originally a general in the Mauryan army before he declared himself king.
• His reign is marked by the revival of Brahmanism and the decline of Buddhism in some regions of India.

Additional Information

• Shunga Dynasty:
  • The Shunga Dynasty was an ancient Indian dynasty that followed the Maurya Dynasty.
  • It was established by Pushyamitra Shunga after the fall of the Maurya Empire.
  • The Shunga Dynasty is known for its patronage of Brahmanism and Hinduism.
  • The dynasty ruled parts of central and eastern India for approximately 112 years.
• Pushyamitra Shunga:
  • Pushyamitra was a Brahmin by birth and served as the commander-in-chief under the Maurya ruler Brihadratha.
  • He is known for his military campaigns and efforts to expand his kingdom.
  • Pushyamitra is often credited with reviving the Vedic religion and promoting the Brahmanical culture.
  • His reign saw the construction of many Hindu temples and the promotion of Sanskrit literature.
• Maurya Dynasty:
  • The Maurya Dynasty was a powerful ancient Indian dynasty founded by Chandragupta Maurya in 322 BCE.
  • It is known for its significant contributions to art, culture, and politics in ancient India.
  • The most notable ruler of the Maurya Dynasty was Ashoka, who played a crucial role in spreading Buddhism.
  • The decline of the Maurya Empire began after Ashoka's death, eventually leading to its fall and the rise of the Shunga Dynasty.
• Brahmanism:
  • Brahmanism refers to the religious and social practices of the ancient Brahmins, the priestly class in Hindu society.
  • It emphasizes the importance of rituals, sacrifices, and the authority of the Vedas.
  • Brahmanism played a significant role in shaping the cultural and religious landscape of ancient India.
  • The revival of Brahmanism during the Shunga Dynasty marked a shift from the Buddhist influence that was prominent during the Maurya period.