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| Foreign Invasions of Northwest India: The Sakas |
Introduction
The Saka, or Scythians, were nomadic tribes originating from Central Asia. They invaded Bactria and Parthia, ousting the Greek rulers, and subsequently expanded their territory into northwestern India. Following the footsteps of the Greeks, the Sakas established their rule over various regions of the subcontinent.
Foreign Invasions of Northwest India: The Sakas
Two Groups of Sakas
The Saka rule in India was divided into two main groups:
Northern Satraps: Ruling from Taxila, the Northern Satraps controlled the northwestern regions of India.
Western Satraps: Governing Maharashtra, the Western Satraps were based in the western Deccan.
The Founder of Saka Rule
Maues, a Saka ruler, established the Saka rule in India in the first century BC. His son and successor, Azes I, is considered to be the founder of the Vikrama era, a widely used calendar system in India.
Overthrow by the Parthians
While the Northern Satraps ruled from Taxila, they were eventually overthrown by the Parthians, another Central Asian nomadic group. The Parthians established their own rule in the region, succeeding the Sakas.
Conclusion
The Saka invasion and rule had a significant impact on the history and culture of northwestern India. Their interaction with local populations led to cultural exchange and the introduction of new ideas and practices. The Saka period also marked a period of political and economic change in the region.
