Kanva Dynasty – Ancient History Notes PDF for all Competitive Exams

Kanva Dynasty: The Kanva Dynasty, though short-lived, holds a place in the history of ancient India as a transitional dynasty that emerged between the Sunga and later dynasties like the Satavahanas and Guptas.

Kanva Dynasty

The Kanva Dynasty was a short-lived dynasty that ruled parts of northern India in the ancient period. Here are some key notes on the Kanva Dynasty:

1. Origin:

  • The Kanva Dynasty originated as a result of a coup against the previous Sunga Dynasty in the 1st century BCE.

2. Founding Ruler:

  • The dynasty was founded by Vasudeva Kanva, who overthrew the last Sunga king, Devabhuti, around 73 BCE.

3. Territory and Rule:

  • The Kanvas ruled over a significant portion of northern India, including areas in modern-day Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and parts of northern India.
  • Their rule marked a brief interlude between the decline of the Sunga Dynasty and the rise of the later Satavahana and Gupta dynasties.

4. Patronage of Buddhism:

  • Vasudeva Kanva and his successors were known for their patronage of Buddhism.
  • During their rule, Buddhism received support, and monastic centers and stupas were constructed and maintained.

5. Decline and Succession:

  • The Kanva Dynasty was relatively short-lived and lasted for about 45 years.
  • After Vasudeva Kanva’s rule, his successors were less prominent, and the dynasty eventually faded into obscurity.
  • Around 28 BCE, the Kanva Dynasty was supplanted by the rise of the Satavahanas and later the Gupta Empire.

6. Contribution to Indian History:

  • While the Kanva Dynasty’s rule was relatively brief, it played a transitional role in the history of northern India.
  • It marked the end of the Sunga Dynasty and paved the way for the emergence of other powerful dynasties in the region.


Download Kanva Dynasty Notes PDF in Hindi

Download Kanva Dynasty Notes PDF in English


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By Team Learning Mantras