Introduction

The region known as Chedi, situated between the Narmada and the Godavari rivers, was governed by the Kalachuri dynasty. Initially subordinate to the Pratiharas, the Kalachuris asserted their independence in the mid-10th century. The Kalachuri dynasty established its rule over the Chedi region, specifically Dahala-mandala, with Tripuri as its capital (modern-day Jabalpur, M.P). Engaging in conflicts, the Kalachuris of Chedi contested against the Chandellas of Jejakabhukti and later formed matrimonial alliances with them. They also experienced hostilities with the Palas, Pandyas, Cholas, and Pallavas.

Chedi Rulers

Kokkala I (c. 845 – 885 CE)

The founder of the Kalachuri dynasty, Kokkala I, initiated the dynasty's rule. He undertook an invasion of northern Konkan and supported King Krishna II of the Rashtrakuta dynasty in conflicts against the eastern Chalukyas and the Pratiharas. Kokkala I entered into matrimony with a Chandella princess. Upon his demise, his eldest son ascended to the throne, while the younger ones were appointed as rulers of various mandalas or provinces. One of his descendants later established a separate kingdom in south Kosala, with Tummana as its capital.

Yuvraja (c. 915 – 945 CE)

A formidable ruler, Yuvraja achieved victory over the Rashtrakuta army. In celebration of his success, the renowned poet Rajasekara staged the drama "Vidya Salabhanjika." The Kalachuri inscriptions highlight Yuvraja's successful raids against Kashmir and the Himalayan region.

Lakshmanaraja (around the 3rd quarter of the 10th century CE)

Lakshmanaraja triumphed over Vangala in south Bihar and the Somavamsi king of south Kosala. He also conducted invasions in Lata in the west, defeating the king of Gurjara, likely Mulraja I, the founder of the Chalukya empire.

Gangeya Deva (c. 1019 – 1040 CE)

Under Gangeya Deva's rule, the Chedis became a significant political power in India. He adopted the titles of Trikalingadhipati (the lord of Trikalinga) and Vikramaditya. His success can be attributed to the absence of raids from the Ghaznavids, unlike other political powers to the north and northwest that faced Sultan Mahmud's incursions. During his reign, the depiction of the four-armed Lakshmi seated cross-legged on a lotus, with inscriptions in the Nagari script "Shrimad-Gangeyadeva," was introduced on coins of various sizes and metals.

Lakshmi Karna (c. 1041 – 1073 CE)

Also known as Karna, Lakshmi Karna achieved success in the south and northwest. His victorious campaigns extended along the eastern coast to Kanchi, where it is believed he defeated the Pallavas, Pandyas in the south, Kungas, and Someshwara I.

Yashkarna (c. 1073 – 1125 CE)

Yashkarna faced numerous invasions, including raids by the Chalukyas of the Deccan and the destruction of Tripuri by the Paramaras. He suffered defeat at the hands of the Chandellas, and these combined attacks weakened the Kalachuri dynasty.

Vijayasimha (c. 1177 – 1211 CE)

The final ruler of the Kalachuri dynasty, Vijayasimha, witnessed the capture of almost the entire Kalachuri kingdom, including Baghelkhand and Dahala-mandala, by Chandella king Trailokyavarman during his reign.

The ascendancy of emerging dynasties, namely the Yadavas of Devagiri, the Ganpatis of Warangal, and the Vaghela Rajputs, led to the loss of Chedi territories.