The Sailodbhavas and their Contemporaries of Kangoda
Summary
Ganguly reconstructs the history of the Sailodbhava dynasty of Kangoda (southern Odisha) using nine copper-plate inscriptions. The earliest, the Ganjam plates dated 619–20 CE, describe Madhavaraja Sainyabhita as a ‘Mahasamanta’ and ‘Mahasimanta’, indicating feudatory status. Ganguly argues that early Sailodbhava kings acknowledged suzerainty to overlords like Gauda king Sasanka. After Sasanka’s death, the Khurda plates omit any mention of him and claim that Madhavaraja ruled all of Kalinga, suggesting a brief period of independence. Genealogical lists in the Buguda and Parikud plates trace the dynasty from a mythical ancestor ‘Sailodbhava’, created from rock, through Ranabhita, Sainyabhita, Ayosobhita and later kings. The article discusses political context: the Sailodbhavas were probably feudatories of the Maina dynasty before Sasanka; they gained prominence during his decline, but Harsavardhana soon conquered Kangoda. Ganguly compares the Sailodbhavas with contemporary Gangas and highlights their temporary successes and eventual subordination. By analysing titles, genealogies and historical circumstances, he concludes that the Sailodbhavas were minor local rulers whose fortunes fluctuated with regional power struggles.
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Conclusion
Ganguly’s epigraphic analysis shows that the Sailodbhavas were small feudatory rulers who occasionally asserted autonomy. Early inscriptions reveal humble titles and allegiance to Sasanka while later grants claim control over Kalinga during a short-lived independence. Genealogical plates illustrate dynastic continuity and mythic origins. Ultimately, the dynasty’s fate depended on the rise and fall of neighbouring powers, highlighting the fluidity of early medieval politics.