Discuss whether kings in early states were invariably Kshatriyas.

1.	Discuss whether kings in early states were invariably Kshatriyas.
Answer» SOLUTION :(i) Dharmasutras and Dharmashastras compiled between c. 500-200 BCE lay down code of social BEHAVIOUR and IDEAL order in great details. (ii) Caste status was determined by birth and was prescribed under the four fold Varnahierarchy. The kshatriyas were to "ENGAGE in warfare" protect people, administer justice, study the vedas, get sacrifies performed and give gifts. (iii) The Dharmasutras and Dharmashastras explained that only kshatriyas could be kings.However, several important ruling lineages had different origins. (a) Mauryas: Brahmanical texts DESCRIBE them of low origin while Buddhist texts term them as kshatriyas. (b) The Sungas and Kanvas, the successors of Mauryas were Brahmans. (c) The Shaka rulers were regarded as Mlechchhas-barbarians or outsiders by Brahmans. (d) The Satavahana rulers were Brahmans.

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