Best Ramjee Chandran Podcasts (2025)

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Three Strands of History: Vijayanagara, the Mysore Royals, and the Kempe Gowdas (1433-1513 AD) 25:14

3h ago25:14

25:14

Ramjee Chandran weaves together the intertwined histories of Vijayanagara, the Mysore Wadiyars, and the Kempe Gowdas during a period of significant change. Explore the grandeur of Vijayanagara, the political machinations of Deva Raya II, and the shifting power dynamics in the Deccan. Delve into the early lineage of the Wadiyars, the legends and rea…

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The Wadiyars and the Yelahanka Nada Prabhus - Part 2: The New Rulers (1399-1513 AD) 22:51

12d ago22:51

22:51

The story of the Yelahanka Nada Prabhus unfolds alongside the rise of the Mysore Wadiyars—two families shaped by the shifting power dynamics of the Vijayanagara Empire. In this episode, Ramjee Chandran explores the role of local chieftains, the legends surrounding these dynasties, and the political landscape that defined their fate. From the last d…

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The Yelahanka Nada Prabhus - Part 1-Origins: 1399 - 1513 19:27

19d ago19:27

19:27

Ramjee Chandran begins Season 2 by revisiting captivating tale of the Gowda clan's migration to the Yelahanka region. Discover the legend of Doddamma, the dramatic migration from Alur, and the clan's journey along the Palar River. Explore the historical context as the Gowdas establish their rule and lay the foundations for Kempe Gowda I's legacy. T…

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Season Two Curtain Raiser. 1399 to 1799: The Rise And Fall Of Bengaluru 2:34

1M ago2:34

2:34

Get ready for an epic journey through 400 years of Bangalore's history. In Season 2, Ramjee Chandran explores the city's transformation from Kempe Gowda I's grand pete to the arrival of the British. Witness the rise of the Wadiyars, the conflicts with the Bahmanis, Marathas, and Mughals, and the dramatic era of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. Discover h…

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The Soviets, Rajiv Gandhi And Delhi In The '80s - 'For No Reason At All' A Novel By Ramjee Chandran 34:33

1M ago34:33

34:33

Send us a text For No Reason At All is a thinly fictionalised version of a very interesting and a very real story. High stakes and high intrigue—the story follows a young, feckless lobbyist, Solly Nilla, who is tossed into a situation that attracts the involvement of foreign interests including the embassies of France and the Soviet Union. And even…

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Season Finale: The Rise Of Kempe Gowda And The Birth of Bangalore: 1509-1537 AD 25:02

2M ago25:02

25:02

All journeys must pause before they continue. In this season finale Ramjee Chandran brings together the threads of history that led to the founding of Bengaluru. We step into the grandeur of Krishna Deva Raya’s court, witness the empire’s twilight as the Deccan Sultanates close in, and watch as vassals like the Wadiyars and Kempe Gowda rise to stak…

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Two Centuries In Vijayanagara: 1336-1509 AD 26:03

3M ago26:03

26:03

Join Ramjee Chandran as he navigates the complex history of the Vijayanagara Empire, from its contested origins to its consolidation of power. Explore the early reigns of Harihara and Bukka, the rise of the Bahmani Sultanate, and the shifting narratives surrounding this influential kingdom. Discover how Vijayanagara filled the power vacuum in the D…

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How The West Discovered Vijayanagara: 1336 AD 21:43

3M ago21:43

21:43

Embark on a journey to uncover the origins of the Vijayanagara Empire. From its rediscovery by European surveyors to the legendary tales of its founding, we explore the historical context that shaped this powerful dynasty. Delve into the early days of Harihara and Bukka, and witness the seeds of an empire that would reshape the Deccan. Ramjee Chand…

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They Killed Him And Hung His Body In Public. The Death Of Veera Ballala: 1312-1343 AD 23:56

3M ago23:56

23:56

In this episode, Ramjee Chandran traces the final years of Veera Ballala III, the last great Hoysala king, as he struggles to hold his kingdom together. From his uneasy vassalage under the Delhi Sultanate to his desperate attempts at reclaiming sovereignty, Ballala’s story unfolds against the backdrop of collapsing kingdoms and treacherous alliance…

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Allauddin Khilji Takes The South The Fall of an Empire 2 - The Hoysalas Part XIII: 1256-1312 AD 23:56

3M ago23:56

23:56

Join Ramjee Chandran as he explores the decline and fall of the once-mighty Hoysala Empire. From the fractured reigns of Narasimha III and Ramanatha to the rise of the last king, Veera Ballala III, we trace the kingdom's weakening state. Witness the devastating impact of Malik Kafur's invasion and the eventual subjugation of the Hoysalas by the Del…

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The Fall of an Empire 1 - The Hoysalas Part XII: 1220-1256 AD 23:41

3M ago23:41

23:41

In this episode, Ramjee Chandran continues his exploration of the decline of the Hoysala Empire. Following the death of Veera Ballala II in 1220, his son Narasimha II inherits a kingdom at its peak, but faces mounting challenges, including the resurgence of the Pandyas, the weakening of the Chola Empire, and encroaching threats from the Yadavas. Na…

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Enemies Become Friends-The Hoysala-Chola Alliance - The Hoysalas Part XI: 1194-1220 AD 21:52

3M ago21:52

21:52

The political dynamics of the early 13th century are fascinating, focused on the unexpected alliance between the Hoysalas and the Cholas. Join Ramjee Chandran as he delves into Veera Ballala II’s rise to power, the dramatic fall of the Kalachuris and Yadavas, and the pivotal battles that solidified his reputation as a formidable warrior. With the P…

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How The Hoysalas Became Rulers Of The Deccan - The Hoysalas Part X: 1142-1194 AD 22:51

4M ago22:51

22:51

Ramjee Chandran continues his exploration of the Hoysala dynasty with a focus on the reign of Narasimha I, a king caught in the midst of internal chaos and external threats. As Narasimha’s leadership falters, his son Ballala II rises to challenge him, eventually seizing the throne in 1173. This episode uncovers the complex dynamics within the Hoysa…

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The Final Days Of Vishnuvardhana - The Hoysalas Part IX: 1118-1142 AD 19:48

4M ago19:48

19:48

This episode explores the final years of Vishnuvardhana, the Hoysala king who transformed a principality into a budding empire. From his legendary romance with Shantala Devi to his unyielding military campaigns against the Chalukyas, Vishnuvardhana's story is one of ambition, devotion, and resilience. Ramjee Chandran discovers the triumphs, setback…

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Two Crazy Years Of Vishnuvardhana - The Hoysalas Part VIII: 1116 - 1118 AD 21:39

4M ago21:39

21:39

After Vishnuvardhana conquered Talakadu, it was as though he and his troops came alive with a thirst for battle. In a span of two years, they embarked on a series of conquests that seemed almost insane for the little time it took. Even allowing for some epigraphical exaggeration, the military campaigns resulted in Vishnu occupying a good part of th…

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Discovering The Lost Glory Of India With William Dalrymple And The Golden Road 45:48

4M ago45:48

45:48

Send us a text We Indians often wear our heritage with pride, but how much of it do we truly understand? William Dalrymple’s latest book, The Golden Road, charts the extraordinary journey of Indian ideas, knowledge, art, and religion as they shaped cultures across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. In this episode we explore the Indosphere—where In…

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Vishnuvardhana Takes Gangavadi - The Hoysalas Part VII: 1116 AD 21:39

4M ago21:39

21:39

Join Ramjee Chandran as we delve into the pivotal campaign that solidified Hoysala dominance in the Deccan. Witness Vishnuvardhana's decisive victory over the Chola forces at Talakadu, marking a turning point in Hoysala history. Explore the strategic brilliance of General Ganga-raja and the political maneuvering that led to the Hoysala conquest of …

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Vishnuvardhana With Ramanuja — Why He Converted To Vaishnavism-The Hoysalas Part VI: 1108 -1116 AD 21:19

4M ago21:19

21:19

This episode dives into the reign of Vishnuvardhana—the most significant of the Hoysala rulers. His conversion from Jainism to Vaishnavism under the influence of the legendary scholar Ramanuja reshaped the course of Deccan history. Join Ramjee Chandran as he unravels the tales of Vishnuvardhana's angst, his how he found faith, his military campaign…

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The Six Short Significant Years Of Ballala I - The Hoysalas Part V: 1102 -1108 AD 22:15

4M ago22:15

22:15

This episode is about the reign of Ballala I—the Hoysala king. Join Ramjee Chandran as he explores Ballala’s early attempts to break free from Chalukya overlordship, following his celebrated victory against the Paramara king Jagaddeva. The attempt at defying the Chalukya overlords failed. The Hoysalas faced a humiliating defeat at the hands of the …

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The Limitless Boundaries Of Ambition - The Hoysalas Part IV: 1098-1108 AD 24:57

4M ago24:57

24:57

In this episode, Ramjee Chandran delves into the early years of Ballala I, exploring the crucial period that shaped the future of the Hoysala dynasty. We examine the impact of the pivotal Battle of Koppam on regional politics and analyse the Hoysalas' evolving relationship with the Chalukya Empire. We'll also explore the philosophical questions tha…

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Hoysala Vinayaditya Builds The Foundations - The Hoysalas Part III: 1047 - 1098 AD 21:33

5M ago21:33

21:33

Join Ramjee Chandran as he takes a deep dive into the rise of the Hoysala dynasty, focusing on the reign of Vinayaditya, a pivotal figure who transformed the Hoysalas from a minor power to a significant force in the Deccan. Take a look at Vinayaditya's military campaigns, his patronage of the arts, and his contributions to the consolidation of Hoys…

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108 Reasons To Love Art and Alka Pande - A Conversation With Kamini Sawhney 48:06

5M ago48:06

48:06

Send us a text This special edition of The Literary City is a conversation about the transformative power of the arts—particularly the visual arts. Often misunderstood or overlooked, the arts hold the potential to nourish the mind and soul, offering cultural insights that resonate deeply with our lives today. In this episode, guest host Kamini Sawh…

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Anirudh Kanisetti And His Conquest Of The Mediaeval Deccan 35:08

5M ago35:08

35:08

Send us a text As writers, we know that how we say something matters as much as what we say. The right words, arranged with care, can influence thought and stir emotion—or so we hope. The divide between creative prose and academic jargon was once stark. But then came the 1970s and 80s, when scientists like Isaac Asimov, Arthur Clarke, Carl Sagan, a…

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The First 50 Years - The Making Of The Hoysalas Part II: 1000-1047 AD 21:07

5M ago21:07

21:07

Join Ramjee Chandran as we delve into the formative years of the Hoysala dynasty, spanning from 1000 AD to 1047 AD. Explore the mysterious figure of Sala, the dynasty's founder, and his connection to the Malnad region. Uncover the early struggles and alliances of the Hoysalas, as they navigated the complex political landscape of the Deccan. Witness…

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Introducing The Hoysalas Part 1: 1000-1346 AD 20:55

5M ago20:55

20:55

We delve into the origins of the Hoysala dynasty, tracing their roots to the Malnad region. Explore the legends surrounding the dynasty's founder, Sala, and his encounter with a tiger. Discover the unique blend of martial prowess and cultural patronage that characterised the Hoysala rulers, and how they transformed the Deccan landscape with their m…

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Malcolm Gladwell And The Revenge Of The Tipping Point 43:57

5M ago43:57

43:57

Send us a text Much of what we understand about global trends is filtered through the lens of the United States. What happens there often shapes thought, culture, and society worldwide. And when it comes to shaping thought, few have had the impact of my guest today: Malcolm Gladwell. Gladwell, the bestselling author of *The Tipping Point*, *Blink*,…

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The First Rays Of The Hoysala Sunrise And The End Of Chola Occupation: 1014-1104 AD 23:56

5M ago23:56

23:56

Join Ramjee Chandran as he explores the rise of the Hoysala dynasty, a powerful force that emerged in the Deccan region. Discover the impact of Chola rule on the region and the opportunities it created for local powers. Witness the gradual decline of Chola authority and the rise of the Hoysalas, who would eventually establish their dominance over t…

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The Cholas Introduce Democracy, The Battle Of Kaliyur & The Rise Of The Hoysalas 21:01

6M ago21:01

21:01

Ramjee Chandran delves into the turbulent period following the Chola conquest of the Gangavadi region. Explore the impact of Chola administrative reforms, which stripped local feudatories of their power and influence. Witness the Battle of Kaliyur, a significant clash between the Chola forces and a coalition of disgruntled local rulers, including p…

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Why The Cholas Were Interested In Talakadu: 990-1014 AD 24:07

6M ago24:07

24:07

Ramjee Chandran explores the dramatic shift in power in South India as the mighty Chola Empire, led by the visionary Rajaraja Chola I, extends its dominion over the Deccan region. Witness the decline of the Ganga dynasty and the strategic importance of the Gangavadi region in the broader context of South Indian history. Discover the impact of Chola…

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The Last Gasp Of The Gangas-Part X- 940-1014 AD 26:08

6M ago26:08

26:08

Join Ramjee Chandran as he brings the curtain down on the Ganga dynasty, looking at their final years as they were dredged through the wrong side of extinction. As they fell, Chamundaraya—the devoted architect of the iconic Gomateshwara statue at Shravanabelagola—stood as a shining example of loyalty and dedication. He stabilised the kingdom, propp…

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From Nitimarga To A Bloody Coup By Butuga: The Ganga Dynasty-Part IX - 900 - 940 AD 19:45

6M ago19:45

19:45

Ramjee Chandran delves into the tumultuous final years of the Ganga dynasty, marked by internal strife, external threats, and the rise of powerful rivals. Witness the tragic demise of Rachamalla III at the hands of his own brother, Butuga II. Watching all this intently from the wings, the Cholas would start to make their plans for the total dominat…

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The First Mention Of Bangalore, Nitimarga And Nagattara: The Ganga Dynasty- Part VIII: 850-1014 AD 24:08

6M ago24:08

24:08

It was towards the end of the 9th century that the Bangalore area came into importance. The most significant sign of this was the Nageswara Temple in Begur that was constructed during the reign of the ruling Ganga king Nitimarga and his local feudatory chieftain, Nagattara. Inscriptions discovered in and around Begur, reveal fascinating details abo…

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The Ganga Dynasty Part VII-Twilight of Power: 850-1014 AD 19:56

7M ago19:56

19:56

Ramjee Chandran delves into the final years of the Ganga dynasty, exploring the challenges they faced as they struggled to maintain their power in the ever-changing political landscape of the Deccan. Witness the rise of the Western Chalukyas and the Chola empire, and how these powerful forces threatened the existence of the Gangas. We gratefully ac…

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The Last Days Of the Pallavas and Rashtrakutas: 900-975 AD 28:35

7M ago28:35

28:35

Ramjee Chandran explores the decline of the Rashtrakuta and Pallava empires in the beginning of the 10th century. Witness the internal struggles, external threats, and the rise of rival powers that contributed to their downfall. Discover the final rulers of these dynasties and the lasting impact of their legacy on the Deccan region. We gratefully a…

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The Rashtrakutas And The Gangas Part IV 816-878 AD: The Troubled Rule Of Amoghavarsha Nrupathunga 24:40

7M ago24:40

24:40

Ramjee Chandran explores the tumultuous reign of Amoghavarsha, the Rashtrakuta king who succeeded his father Govinda III. Witness the challenges he faced, his efforts to maintain the empire's dominance, and the lasting impact of his rule on the Deccan region. Discover the compassionate nature of Amoghavarsha, a man who prioritized peace over war, a…

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The Rashtrakutas And The Gangas Part III: 804-816 AD -The Himalayas To Kanyakumari - Govinda III’s Conquest Of India: 22:44

7M ago22:44

22:44

Ramjee Chandran explores the military conquests of Govinda III, the Rashtrakuta king who expanded his empire to unprecedented heights. Witness his campaigns in the north, his victories over powerful adversaries, and the lasting impact of his reign on the political landscape of India. Additionally, delve into the curious story of Sivamara Ganga, the…

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The Rashtrakutas And The Gangas Part II 788-816 AD: Defiance, Prison And Death 22:25

7M ago22:25

22:25

Ramjee Chandran explores the ongoing rivalry between the Gangas and the Rashtrakutas, two powerful dynasties vying for control of the Deccan region. Witness the unwavering resilience of the Gangas as they defy the might of the Rashtrakutas, despite facing numerous setbacks and challenges. The absolute defiance of Sivamara II in the face of repeated…

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The Gangas Defy The Rashtrakutas - Two Centuries of Enmity Begin 22:33

8M ago22:33

22:33

Things take an interesting turn as the histories of the Deccan merge. Join Ramjee Chandran as he explores the complex relationship between the Gangas and the Rashtrakutas, two powerful dynasties that dominated the Deccan region. Discover their conflicts, alliances, and the lasting impact of their rivalry on the political landscape. Witness the rise…

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The Chalukyas Part X: 733-753 AD - The Chalukya Sunset And The Rashtrakuta Sunrise 23:41

8M ago23:41

23:41

Join Ramjee Chandran as he explores the final years of the Chalukya dynasty under the reigns of Vikramaditya II and his son Kirtivarman II. Witness the decline of the empire as internal struggles and external threats converge. Discover the rise of the Rashtrakutas and the shifting power dynamics of the Deccan region. We gratefully acknowledge the s…

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The Chalukyas Part IX: 681-733 AD -Vinayaditya And Vijayaditya. And The Chalukyas Give Refuge To The Parsis 24:57

8M ago24:57

24:57

Explore the twilight years of the Chalukyan Empire in the latest episode of the podcast hosted by Ramjee Chandran! Discover how man-made tanks in Bangalore, a legacy of King Vijayaditya’s dedication to water conservation, shaped the city's landscape. In this episode, Ramjee Chandran delves into the reigns of Vinayaditya and Vijayaditya, revealing s…

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The Chalukyas Part VIII: 654-681 AD -The Rise Of Vikramaditya And The Sunset On The Empire 22:35

8M ago22:35

22:35

Ramjee Chandran explores the life of Vikramaditya I, the Chalukya ruler who successfully restored his dynasty after the devastating defeat of Pulakesin II. Discover his strategies, challenges, and the lasting impact of his reign on the Deccan region. Witness the resurgence of the Chalukya empire under Vikramaditya's leadership. We gratefully acknow…

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The Chalukyas Part VII: 622-634 AD - The Price of Ambition- Pulakesin’s Tragic Fate 25:56

9M ago25:56

25:56

Discover the tragic downfall of Pulakesin II, the once-mighty ruler of the Chalukya empire. Join Ramjee Chandran as he dives into the complex factors that contributed to his demise, including external threats, internal conflicts, and strategic miscalculations. Was it a case of too much ambition? A case of pride going before a fall? We gratefully ac…

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The Chalukyas Part VI: 620-622 AD Pulakesin vs Harsha-The Battle Of Narmada 24:20

9M ago24:20

24:20

Ramjee Chandran delves into the epic confrontation between Pulakesin II and Harshavardhana. Explore the political landscape of the 7th century as these powerful rulers battle for supremacy. Discover the outcome of the Battle of Narmada and its lasting impact on the subcontinent. We gratefully acknowledge the support of the Prestige Group, that make…

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The Chalukyas Part V: 610-617 AD - Pulakesin II Stamps Out The Opposition 21:59

9M ago21:59

21:59

Ramjee Chandran delves into the critical years following Pulakesin II's ascension to the Chalukya throne. Witness the young king's ruthless efficiency as he quells rebellions, defeats rivals, and expands the empire's borders. From the battlefields of Elpattu Simbighe to the diplomatic maneuvers that secured his reign, this episode explores the stra…

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The Chalukyas Part IV: 610 AD Pulakesin II - The Lion Ascends 21:44

9M ago21:44

21:44

Join Ramjee Chandran as he delves into the dramatic life of Pulakesin II. Witness his rise to power, reclaiming the Chalukya throne from his usurping uncle after the epic battle of Elpattu Simbighe. Explore the political landscape of the Deccan and the challenges Pulakesin faced in solidifying his reign. Discover the foundations laid for the Chaluk…

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The Chalukyas Part III 597-610 AD: Hubris and Fratricide - The Rise and Fall of Mangalesha 26:15

10M ago26:15

26:15

Join Ramjee Chandran as he delves into the complex reign of Mangalesha, brother and successor to the Chalukya king Kirtivarman I. Witness Mangalesha's expansion of the Chalukyan empire through naval conquests and strategic alliances. However, his ambition and desire for power led to a tragic fratricide, paving the way for the rise of the legendary …

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The Chalukyas Part II 566-596AD: Pulakesin Started a Kingdom. Kiritivarman Built An Empire 26:26

10M ago26:26

26:26

In this episode of History of Bangalore, join host Ramjee Chandran as he delves into the reign of Kirtivarman I, the son of Pulakesin I, the founder of the Chalukya dynasty. We explore how Kirtivarman solidified his father's ambitions, consolidating power and expanding the Chalukyan territory. Discover tales of his conquests, the strategic importan…

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Chalukyas to Rashtrakutas Part I: 500-550AD Jayasimha to Pulakesi I—The Rise Of A Dynasty 24:25

10M ago24:25

24:25

This episode of History of Bangalore delves into the enigmatic origins of the Chalukya dynasty. Host Ramjee Chandran explores theories ranging from local leadership to divine descent, and witness their rise to power under Pulakesin I. Discover the significance of Vatapi, the barbaric Ashwamedhayaga horse sacrifice, and how the Chalukyas challenged …

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The Ganga Dynasty Part VI 788-812: Sivamara II, The Battle of Navasari and The Rise Of The Rashtrakutas 25:32

10M ago25:32

25:32

In this episode of History of Bangalore Ramjee Chandran delves into the complex political landscape following the reign of Ganga king Sripurusha. Witness the rise of Dantidurga, the ambitious leader of the Rashtrakutas, and a clash of empires as the Umayyad Caliphate attempts to expand into India. We explore the pivotal Battle of Navasari and the b…

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The Ganga Dynasty Part V: 725—788AD Sripurusha: Victories, Alliances, and the Rise of New Threats 26:23

11M ago26:23

26:23

This episode of The History of Bangalore explores the reign of King Sripurusha, a defining era for the Ganga Dynasty. We delve into his military triumphs, including the Battle of Vilande, and the strategic use of alliances. Discover how Sripurusha navigated the changing political landscape, facing off against the Pallavas and witnessing the rise of…

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Ramjee Chandran Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen