Shishunaga facts for kids

Shishunaga (born around 413 BCE – died 395 BCE) was an important ancient Indian ruler. He founded the Shishunaga dynasty in the powerful Magadha Empire. This empire was located in what is now northern India.

Before becoming king, Shishunaga was an amatya, which means he was a high-ranking official or minister. He served the Magadha Empire under the previous ruling family, the Haryanka dynasty. The people of Magadha were unhappy with the Haryanka dynasty. They revolted and chose Shishunaga to be their new king.

According to ancient texts called the Puranas, Shishunaga placed his son in charge of the city of Varanasi. He himself ruled from Girivraja, also known as Rajagriha. His son, Kalashoka (also called Kakavarna), later took over as king after him.

How Shishunaga Became King

Ancient stories like the Mahavamsatika suggest that Shishunaga was the son of a Licchavi ruler from Vaishali. His mother was a woman from the city, and he was raised to be an important state officer.

When the people rebelled against the Haryanka dynasty, Shishunaga was already a viceroy. This means he was a governor or a representative of the king. He was in charge of the city of Varanasi for King Nagadasaka. Nagadasaka was the last ruler of the Haryanka dynasty.

Shishunaga's Time as King

Shishunaga ruled the Magadha Empire from 413 BCE to 395 BCE. When he first became king, his main capital was Rajagriha. However, he also used Vaishali as a second royal home. Later, he decided to move his main capital completely to Vaishali.

One of Shishunaga's biggest achievements was conquering the Avanti kingdom. He defeated their last king, Nandivardhana (or Avantivardhana), who belonged to the Pradyota dynasty. This victory helped Magadha become even stronger. It is believed that a revolution in Ujjayini, which put a new ruler named Aryaka on the throne, might have helped Shishunaga win against Avanti.

The Puranas mention that Shishunaga put his son in charge of the city of Varanasi. Shishunaga himself continued to rule from Girivraja, which is also known as Rajagriha.

Expanding the Empire

King Shishunaga was very successful in expanding the Magadha Empire. He completely destroyed the Pradyota dynasty of Avanti. He also conquered the kingdoms of Kosala and Vatsa. These victories made the Magadha Empire much larger and more powerful.

Who Ruled After Shishunaga?

After Shishunaga's reign, his son, Kalashoka (also known as Kakavarna), became the next king of the Magadha Empire.

See also

• Avanti-Magadhan Wars