Western Ganga dynasty facts for kids

The Western Ganga dynasty was a very important group of rulers in ancient Karnataka, a region in India. They ruled for a long time, from about 350 CE to 1000 CE. For the first part of their rule, from 350 CE to 550 CE, they were fully independent.

They first ruled from a city called Kolar. Later, they moved their main city, or capital, to Talakadu. This city was located by the Kaveri River in what is now the Mysore district. Around the year 1000 CE, another powerful group called the Cholas defeated the Western Gangas. This battle marked the end of the Ganga dynasty's power in the area.

Who Were the Western Gangas?

The Western Ganga dynasty was one of the oldest and most important kingdoms in southern India. They helped shape the history and culture of Karnataka. Their rule saw many important developments in art, architecture, and literature.

Their Early Days and Capitals

The Gangas started their rule in Kolar. This city was important for trade and defense. As their power grew, they moved their capital to Talakadu. Talakadu became a center for their kingdom, located on the banks of the Kaveri River. This river was important for farming and travel.

What They Were Known For

The Western Gangas were known for their support of different religions, especially Jainism. They built many beautiful temples and monuments. Many of these structures can still be seen today. They also created many stone carvings and inscriptions, which tell us a lot about their time.

Art and Architecture

The Gangas were great builders. They created unique styles of temples and sculptures. Many of their buildings were made of stone and featured detailed carvings. These carvings often showed religious figures, stories, and daily life.

Important Inscriptions

The Ganga rulers left behind many inscriptions carved on rocks and pillars. These inscriptions are like ancient messages. They tell us about their kings, their victories, and how they managed their kingdom. One famous inscription from Talakadu dates back to around 726 CE. Another important one from 981 CE is found at Shravanabelagola.

Key Places of the Western Gangas

Several places are important when we talk about the Western Ganga dynasty.

Talakadu

Talakadu was their main capital for a long time. It was a thriving city with many temples. Today, it is known for its ancient ruins and temples that are often buried in sand.

Shravanabelagola

Shravanabelagola is a very famous place connected to the Western Gangas. It is a major center for Jainism. The Gangas supported the building of many Jain monuments here, including the giant statue of Gomateshwara. This area also has many important temples like the Chandragupta Basadi and Chavundaraya basadi.

Kambadahalli

Kambadahalli is another site with important Jain temples built during the Ganga period. The Panchakuta basadi there is a great example of their architectural skill, with beautiful halls and sculptures.

The End of the Ganga Rule

The Western Ganga dynasty ruled for many centuries. However, around 1000 CE, their power began to decline. The powerful Chola dynasty from the south attacked and defeated them. This defeat marked the end of the Western Ganga dynasty as a major power in Karnataka. Even after their main rule ended, their influence on the art, culture, and history of the region continued for a long time.

Images for kids

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  Old Kannada inscription from Talakad (c. 726 CE)

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  Saint Bharata chakravartin at Shravanabelagola temple complex

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  Footprint worship at Shravanabelagola

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  A mantapa (hall) at the Jain Panchakuta basadi (9th–10th century) at Kambadahalli

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  Hero stone (870–906 A.D.) with old Kannada inscription at Kalleshvara temple in Aralaguppe

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  Mahasthambha (pillar) and Chandragupta Basadi at Chandragiri Hill in Shravanabelagola

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  Chandragiri hill temple complex at Shravanabelagola

• Relief of Jain tirthankara in the Panchakuta Basadi at Kambadahalli.JPG

  Ceiling sculpture, Panchakuta Basadi, Kambadahalli

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  Chavundaraya basadi on Chandragiri hill in Shravanabelagola temple complex

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  Old Kannada inscription at the base of Gomateshwara monolith in Shravanabelagola (981 CE)

See also

In Spanish: Dinastía Ganga Occidental para niños