Chudasama dynasty
The Chudasama dynasty ruled parts of the Saurashtra region in present-day Gujarat from around the 9th or 10th century until 1472. Their capitals were Junagadh and later Vamanasthali (Vanthali). The early history is unclear, but tradition says the dynasty began with Chudachandra in the late 9th century. Rulers like Graharipu, Navaghana, and Khengara often fought the Chaulukya rulers Mularaja and Jayasimha Siddharaja.
The first ruler we can confirm from inscriptions is Mandalika I (around 1294–1306), a king during a time when Delhi’s Khalji dynasty invaded Gujarat. The last king, Mandalika III (1451–1472), was defeated and forced to convert to Islam by Sultan Mahmud Begada, who then annexed the region.
Origins and identity are debated. The Chudasamas are sometimes linked to the Samma Rajputs of Sindh or to the Abhiras. Most historians think they came from Chudachandra Yadava, so the dynasty is often named after him. Some inscriptions describe them as Yadavas, and legends connect them to the lunar dynasty.
Power and rule: The Chudasamas controlled a powerful kingdom in Saurashtra and frequently clashed with the Chaulukyas. They sometimes ruled independently and at other times as vassals to larger powers, including the Delhi Sultanate and later the Gujarat Sultanate.
Key sites and culture: The Uparkot Fort at Junagadh was an important stronghold. Navaghana is credited with moving the capital to Junagadh and with building Navghan Kuvo (a stepwell) and Adi Kadi Vav (another stepwell). A minister named Tejapala is linked to Ra Khengar Vav. The Chudasamas minted coins called Kodis, Karshapan, Vishopak, Dram, and Rupak.
Rulers in brief: Chudachandra (early), Graharipu, Navaghana, Khengara, Mandalika I (c. 1294–1306), and Mandalika III (1451–1472).
This is a short, easy-to-understand overview of the Chudasama dynasty.
This page was last edited on 2 February 2026, at 23:13 (CET).