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The origin of the Kalachuris, also known as the Haihayas, remains uncertain. They belonged to a Kshatriya tribe and are referenced in the Brahmanical epics and Puranas. The early Kalachuris of Mahishmati established themselves in present-day Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra. Key rulers of this period included:
They ruled from 550-620 CE. However, their expansion was limited due to the dominance of the Chalukyas of Vatapi and the Maitrakas of Valabhi. Despite repeated conflicts, particularly against Mangalesha and Pulakesin II of the Chalukyas, the Kalachuris maintained their presence and even formed matrimonial alliances with the eastern and western Chalukyas.
Branches of the Kalachuri Dynasty
By the 9th century, several collateral branches of the Kalachuris emerged, the most significant being:
Other branches included:
Kalachuris of Ratanpur
The Kalachuri dynasty of Ratanpur was founded by a son of Kokalla I, a ruler of Chedi. Initially, they were subordinate to the Kalachuris of Chedi. Under Jajjaladeva I in the 12th century, they declared independence, assuming royal titles such as:
They expanded their rule to South Koshala, leading to the eventual emergence of the Kalachuris of Raipur.
Kalachuris of Chedi (Tripuri)
Known as the Dahala-Mandala rulers, the Kalachuris of Chedi governed from their capital Tripuri, near Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh. The prominent ruler Kokalla I initiated his reign around 845 CE, defeating the Pratihara emperor Bhoja I and the Rashtrakuta king Krishna II. Through his military successes and strategic alliances, Kokalla I elevated the dynasty's prestige.
Subsequent rulers included:
The most notable monarch was Gangeyadeva, who expanded the Kalachuri influence. He assumed the title of Vikramaditya and pursued an expansionist policy, defeating South Koshala’s king Mahashivagupta Yayati and capturing Benaras. His alliances with the Paramaras and Cholas proved unsuccessful against the Chalukya king Jayasimha.
Kalachuris of Kalyani
The Kalachuris of Kalyani emerged as a political entity in the 12th century, ruling from 1156 to 1181 CE. Although their reign lasted only 25 years, it was significant. Bijjala II, the founder and most prominent ruler, declared independence from the Chalukyan dynasty during the reign of Taila III. His successors, Someshvara and Sangama, failed to sustain the Kalachuri power, allowing the Chalukyas to reclaim their territories.
Kalachuris' Economic Prosperity and Resource Management
The Kalachuris enjoyed a flourishing economy. The Kalachuris of Tripuri controlled a territory rich in mineral resources. The king was the supreme lord of the lands in his domain.
Their inscriptions indicate that the king had the exclusive authority to donate entire villages, with such donations solely made by him. The kingdom also maintained a monopoly over mines and other reserves of valuable resources.
Agriculture and Industrial Growth in Kalachuri Kingdom
Agriculture was the main occupation of the people. To promote agricultural activities, the kingdom provided essential irrigation facilities.
The territory of the Kalachuris of Chedi was especially rich in forest land. This allowed the kingdom to utilize forest products extensively, fostering industrial growth.
The easy access to raw materials from the forests promoted the growth of industries, particularly woodwork and tanning industries.
Mining
Oil-mining
Textile
Metal
Liquor manufacturing
Stonework industries
Trade and Commerce in Kalachuri Kingdom
In towns, several activities related to internal trade were conducted. Markets were regulated at Mandapika, where all products to be sold were taxed.
After taxation, these products were sold in vithis (shops). Some historians suggest that since Tripuri, the capital of the Kalachuris of Chedi, was a major trade route hub, it significantly boosted the economy.
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