Administration: Pallavas and Chalukyas

A comprehensive analysis of the administrative machinery, revenue systems, and local governance during the peak of the Pallava and Badami Chalukya rule.

Syllabus Core Study Notes (Deep-Dive)

Master the key concepts and dimensions of this topic.

1. Core Study Notes

Geography

  • Pallavas: Tondaimandalam (Coromandel Coast).
  • Chalukyas: Karnataka plateau and Western Deccan.

Personalities

  • Pallavas: Mahendravarman I, Narasimhavarman I.
  • Chalukyas: Pulakeshin II, Vikramaditya I.

Administrative Hierarchy

  • Pallava System:
    • Mandalam (Province) overseen by Rajakumara.
    • Kottams (Districts) managing local groups.
    • Nadus (Village clusters) governed by Nattar.
    • Sabha/Ur: Autonomous village assemblies (Brahmadeya vs. non-Brahmadeya).
  • Chalukyan System:
    • Vishayas/Rashtras: Provinces under Vishayapati.
    • Bhoga: Smaller territorial units.
    • Village level: Governed by Gramabhojaka.
FeaturePallavasChalukyas
RevenueLand tax (Kanam) + tollsBhaga and Bali (Taxes)
Local BodySabha (Control by Brahmins)Mahajanas (Village elders)
King (Samrat)Province (Mandalam)

The Chronological Framework

Click on any period card below to view its key archaeological characteristics, tool types, and major Indian sites.

Practice Zone: 50 Questions

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