The Shunga (185 BCE73 BCE) and Kanva (73 BCE28 BCE) dynasties marked significant periods in Indian history, especially for the cultural and historical development of regions like Uttar Pradesh. Both dynasties played crucial roles in shaping art, religion, and societal structures, with Mathura emerging as a focal point of cultural and economic activity.
Historical Background
The Shunga Dynasty:
The Shunga dynasty succeeded the Mauryan Empire after the assassination of the last Mauryan ruler, Brihadratha, by Pushyamitra Shunga.
Pushyamitra established his rule and focused on reviving Brahmanical traditions and resisting external invasions, including the Indo-Greeks.
The Kanva Dynasty:
The Kanvas overthrew the Shungas when Vasudeva Kanva, a minister of the last Shunga ruler, Devabhuti, seized power.
Though short-lived, the Kanva dynasty continued the cultural and religious policies of the Shungas.
Cultural Developments in Uttar Pradesh
Religious Revival:
The Shungas emphasized the revival of Hinduism and promoted Brahmanical practices, which had declined during Ashokas Buddhist patronage.
The region saw a resurgence of Vedic rituals, yajnas, and the establishment of Hindu temples.
Uttar Pradesh became a hub of both Buddhist and Hindu religious activities, reflecting a syncretic cultural atmosphere.
Art and Architecture:
Terracotta Art:
The Shunga period is known for its exquisite terracotta plaques and figurines found in places like Kaushambi and Mathura.
These terracotta pieces often depicted gods, goddesses, and scenes from everyday life, showcasing advanced artistic skills.
Stupa Construction:
The Shungas were instrumental in enhancing Buddhist architecture, particularly stupas.
In Uttar Pradesh, the Sanchi Stupa received significant enhancements under Shunga rule.
Language and Literature:
Sanskrit regained prominence, with significant contributions to Vedic literature and texts.
Prakrit also flourished during this time, serving as the lingua franca and aiding the spread of Buddhist and Jain teachings.
Economic Prosperity:
The Shungas and Kanvas encouraged trade and agriculture, with Uttar Pradesh becoming a key region for agrarian output and trade routes.
Coins from this period, particularly punch-marked and cast coins, were discovered in areas like Mathura, indicating active economic exchanges.
Role of Mathura During the Shunga and Kanva Periods
A Strategic Location:
Mathura, located on the banks of the Yamuna River, was a significant trade center linking northern and western India with central and southern India.
It emerged as a prominent urban center under the Shungas and Kanvas.
Religious Significance:
Hinduism:
Mathura was a major center for the worship of Vasudeva Krishna, a deity closely linked with the Bhagavata cult, which gained prominence during this period.
Buddhism:
Mathura also hosted Buddhist monasteries and stupas, making it a critical site for Buddhist activities and art.
Jainism:
The city saw Jain cultural and religious activities, with numerous Jain relics and inscriptions from the period.
Mathura School of Art:
The Mathura school of art flourished during this era, blending indigenous styles with Greco-Bactrian influences.
Key features include:
Sculptures of deities like Yakshas and Yakshinis.
Buddha and Bodhisattva figures, characterized by elaborate robes and realistic expressions.
Pillars and reliefs showcasing narrative art, often depicting religious themes and everyday life.
Economic Contributions:
Mathuras artisans and merchants played a vital role in supporting the cultural economy.
The production of goods like textiles, pottery, and sculptures fueled trade both within and outside the region.
Inscriptions and Historical Evidence:
Mathura inscriptions from the period provide insights into the administrative and religious policies of the Shunga and Kanva dynasties.
These inscriptions also indicate the cosmopolitan nature of the city, with influences from various cultural and ethnic groups.
Legacy of the Shunga and Kanva Dynasties in Uttar Pradesh
Cultural Syncretism:
The coexistence and patronage of multiple religions created a rich tapestry of cultural diversity in the region.
The artistic and religious achievements of Mathura influenced later dynasties, including the Kushanas.
Artistic Traditions:
The foundations of the Mathura school of art laid during this period continued to thrive under subsequent rulers, becoming one of the most celebrated artistic traditions in Indian history.
Religious Evolution:
The Bhagavata cult, nurtured in Mathura, played a crucial role in the later development of Vaishnavism.
The Buddhist legacy of the region, though overshadowed by Hindu revivalism, contributed to the spread of Buddhism to Central Asia and beyond.
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