The middle kingdoms of India were the political entities in the Indian subcontinent from 230 BCE to 1206 CE. The period begins after the decline of the Maurya Empire and the corresponding rise of the Satavahana dynasty, starting with Simuka, from 230 BCE. The "middle" period lasted for almost 1436 years and ended in 1206 CE, with the rise of the Delhi Sultanate, founded in 1206, and the end of the Later Cholas.
Silver coin of the founder of the Indo-Greek Kingdom, Demetrius (r. c. 205–171 BC).
Billon drachma of the Huna King Napki Malka (Afghanistan or Gandhara, c. 475–576).
The rock-cut Buddhist viharas and chaityas of Ajanta Caves, built under the patronage of the Vakataka rulers.
Silver coin of the Gupta King Kumara Gupta I (414–455).
The Satavahanas, also referred to as the Andhras in the Puranas, were an ancient Indian Brahmin dynasty based in the Deccan region. Most modern scholars believe that the Satavahana rule began in the late second century BCE and lasted until the early third century CE, although some assign the beginning of their rule to as early as the 3rd century BCE based on the Puranas, but uncorroborated by archaeological evidence. The Satavahana kingdom mainly comprised the present-day Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Maharashtra. At different times, their rule extended to parts of modern Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Karnataka. The dynasty had different capital cities at different times, including Kotalingala(Telangana), Pratishthana (Paithan) and Amaravati (Dharanikota).
Early sculpture from Pauni, ancient Vidarbha, where coins of Satakarni were also found. Pillar with Naga Mucalinda protecting the throne of the Buddha at Pauni (Bhandara District). 2nd-1st century BCE. National Museum of India.
Cave No.19 of Satavahana king Kanha at the Nasik Caves, 1st century BCE.
Naneghat inscription. Dated to 70-60 BCE, in the reign of Satakarni I.
The southern gateway of the Great Stupa at Sanchi was, according to an inscription (see arrow), donated under the rule of "King Satakarni", probably Satakarni II.Sinopoli