Ancient History of the Deccan c3.s5.17

c3.s5.17

The Purâṇas pretend to give us the history of the Śâtavâhanas to whom they give the name of Ândhras. However, if we compare the information given in the Purâṇas with what is contained in the historical documents we possess, we find that it is only the Matsya that deserves to engage the attention of the historian. We shall not however attach any value to the durations of the reigns given in the Matsya Purâṇa, for, each time we proceed to verify these dates, "the Purâṇas are proved to be in error" (Vincent A. Smith.—Early History of India, 2d Edition, page 194). However the order of succession of the kings is nearer the truth. That order is as follows :