Some Buddhist rock-cut caves are called Chaityas, while the others are called Viharas. What is the difference between the two?

India After the Mauryas (200 BC-100 AD)

The decline of the Mauryan Dynasty resulted in political disintegration, and as a result, foreign invasions were made by Bactrian Greeks, Sakas, Kushanas, and Parthians. Though some indigenous rulers also emerged like Sungas, Kanva, and the Satavahanas, but were unable to rule pan India.

1. Bactrian Greeks

(i) They belonged to the Bactrian region of Afghanistan and Demetrius is said to be the first king.

(ii) Menander of Milind was the famous ruler of this dynasty, whose discourse with Buddhist monk Nagsena has been recorded as ‘Milindpanah’.

2. Sakas

(i) Sakas were the tribes of West Asia, who were compelled to evacuate their native area due to the aggression of Kushan, and eventually settled in mid-India.

(ii) Rudradaman was the famous ruler of this dynasty.

3. Parthians

(i) The inscription name Takht-i-Bahi advocates the invasion of Parthian on India.

(ii) Mous was the first ruler, whereas Gondophares was the most famous ruler.

4. Kushans

(i) They belonged to the Yuchi tribe and were lead by Kujula Kadphises. But the most famous ruler of the dynasty was Kanishka.

(ii) Kanishka is accredited for the Saka era and his period is called the golden age of the Indian economy. The fourth Buddhist council took place during his regime.

5. Sunga

(i) Pushyamitra Sunga was the founder of this dynasty and Patanjali is said to be in his court.

(ii) Agnimitra Sunga was another famous ruler of this dynasty.

6. Kanva Dynasty

(i) Vasudeva was the founder of this dynasty.

7. Satavahana

(i) This dynasty was founded by Sreemukhi, whereas, Gautamiputra Satakarni was the most famous ruler.

(ii) The society during the time of this dynasty was matriarchal.