The Nagavamsis of Cakrakotya

Summary

This historical essay investigates the Nāgavamsis of Cakrakotya, a dynasty that ruled over parts of the central Indian plateau. Using inscriptions from Cakrakotya (present‑day Chhattisgarh) and neighbouring regions, the author reconstructs the genealogy of the dynasty, identifying kings such as Madhurantakadeva, Somesvaradeva and Kannaradeva. He argues that the Nāgavamsis were originally local chieftains who rose to prominence in the eleventh century and defended their territory against the Eastern Chalukyas and other neighbours. One intriguing aspect of the article is its discussion of human sacrifice: an inscription records that a grant of the village of Rajapur was made to ensure the supply of victims for a goddess, reflecting the persistence of pre‑Aryan ritual practices into the medieval period. The article also describes Somesvaradeva’s military exploits, including raids into the Vengi region and battles against Ratanpur and Bhandak, as recorded in inscriptions. Despite these successes, the dynasty gradually declined and was absorbed by rising powers in the thirteenth century. By combining epigraphy with local folklore and colonial reports on human sacrifice, the author paints a vivid picture of a warrior lineage navigating a turbulent political landscape.