SOAS Research Online

Abstract

In the first chapter the works of modern scholars who have attempted to write the history of the Eastern Ganga dynasty has been discussed. The sources which have been drawn upon to write this thesis have also been dealt with. Additionally the use of anka regnal years in the inscriptions of the Eastern Ganga dynasty have been discussed. The second chapter deals with some basic but controversial problems, such as different theories regarding the origin of the Eastern Ganga dynasty, the beginning of their authority in Kalinga, the relationship between the early and the later Eastern Gangas as well as their relationship with the Western Gangas of Mysore. In the third chapter some of the epithets of Vajrahasta III and Rajaraja I as well as their relationship with the Colas are examined. The fourth chapter deals with the following: Anantavarman Codaganga's relationship with Permadideva; the two wars between the Colas and the Eastern Ganga armed forces; the annexation of all territory north of the river Godavari from the Vengi kingdom; Anantavarman Codaganga's victory over the King of Mandara; the victory of the Cedi King Ratnadeva II of Ratnapura over Anantavarman Codaganga and the precise location of Trikalinga. Finally the erection of the Jagannatha temple at Puri by Anantavarman Codaganga has also been discussed in this chapter. In the fifth chapter the lengths of the regnal periods of Kamarnava VII, Raghava, Rajaraja II, Anangabhima II and Rajaraja III together with the main events of their reign are discussed. The sixth chapter covers the main events of the reign of Anangabhima III and the controversial views of T.V. Mahalingam regarding a possible invasion and occupation of the Cola kingdom by the Eastern Ganga army. The seventh chapter examines various subdivisions of the Eastern Ganga Kingdom and the order of precedence amongst its officials. It also deals with various types of land grants made by the King, his relatives and officials. In the final chapter the legendary origins of two of the gods worshipped by the Eastern Gangas, i.e., Madhukesvara of Mukhalingam and Jagannatha of Puri are examined, in addition to the religious practices of the Eastern Ganga Kings and their subjects.