Chandellas - Av 1/4 Dinar Of Madanavarman

Chandelas of Jejakabhukti
Madanavarman, 1128-1165
AV 1/4 dinar (12mm, 0.98g)
Obv: Stylized Lakshmi seated in lotus position
Rev: Nagari "Sri Ma Ma / Da Na VarMa / DeVaH"
Deyell 141
Rare



The Chandellas were one of several significant powers dotting north-central India during the years spanning from the collapse of the Gupta empire to the Muslim invasions. Initially Pratihara feudatories, they became independent in the 10th century, and engaged in near constant warfare with their neighbors, particularly the Paramaras. Madanavarman ruled in a time when the Pratihara armies were sapped from a war against the Chaulukyas, and he saw unprecedented success. Unfortunately, the only surviving accounts of his rule are heavily embellished bardic literature, but they probably paint a somewhat accurate picture of his victories in battle and who paid him tribute. Madanavarman was renowned as a generous patron of the arts and clergy, and lived a comfortable, long life.