Question

“In the ancient India, the Kingship was not only with Kshatriyas but also with Non-Kshatriyas.” Explain the statement with examples.

Answer 1

1. The Dharmasutras and Dharmashastras, which were composed between approximately SOG and 200 BCE, provide a detailed code of ideal order and social behavior.
2. According to the four-fold Varna order, caste status was established at birth. The kshatriyas were to "engage in warfare" to defend others, administer justice, study the vedas, offer sacrifices, and give gifts.
3. Only kshatriyas could hold the position of monarch, according to the Dharmasutras and Dharmashastras.
4. Nonetheless, a number of significant governing dynasties came from diverse backgrounds.
   1. Mauryas: Buddhist literature refer to them as kshatriyas, but Brahmanical texts characterize them as being of inferior ancestry.
   2. The descendants of Mauryas, the Sungas and Kanvas, were Brahmans.
   3. Brahmans considered the Shaka kings to be Mlechchhas, barbarians, or foreigners.
   4. Brahmans were the kings of Satavahana.