180- 624 CE

Abhiras, Chutus, Ikshvakus, Ananda Gotrikas, Vishnukundinas and Salankayanas

After the fall of the Satavahana empire, it was partitioned among four powers, while the Pallavas rose to power in the southeast. Thus, the political unity of the Deccan was broken, which had lasted for six centuries from the time of the Nandas. The six powers were:

1. Abhiras, in the north-west
2. Chutus, in the South, and
3. Ikshvakus, in Andhradesa
4. Ananda Gotrika or Kandara, in Guntur
5. Vishnukundins, in Nalgonda
6. Salankayanas, in Krishna district

In administration, the Satavahana tradition was continued, although signs of change have been noticed in the succeeding dynasties. The titles of officials continued to be similar to the Satavahana period, but the duties of several were often combined in one individual. While matronymics continued to be employed, patronymics also mentioned that was followed by the later Kadamba dynasty. This is in line with the practice followed from the Satavahana and Pallava practice. Aharas were called Rashtra, and the title Raja replaced the more impressive Maharaja.

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