For 300 years from the middle of the sixth century A.D., the history of South India was marked by conflicts among three major powers: the Chalukyas of Badami, the Pallavas of Kanchi, and the Pandyas of Madura.

The Chalukyas rose to prominence in the sixth century, but by the eighth century, their place was largely taken by their successors, the Rashtrakutas of Mänyakheta.

The Chalukyas had three branches: the main house of Badami, the Chalukyas of Lata, and the Eastern Chalukyas of Vengi.

The Eastern Chalukyas and the Gangas of Mysore played significant roles in the political conflicts of the time, sometimes having decisive impacts.

The Cholas had practically disappeared, with only a Telugu line of rulers bearing their name, claiming a connection with their capital at Uraiyür.

Despite political conflict, South India experienced significant cultural growth, especially in religion, with a revival of Hinduism, a decline of Jainism and Buddhism, and a flourishing of devotional literature and philosophy.

This cultural renaissance led to advancements in architecture, sculpture, painting, and music, which influenced Hindu colonies across the sea.

Pulakesin I, the founder of the Chalukya line, fortified the hill near Badami in 543-4, declared his independence through a horse sacrifice, and established a stronghold on the Malaprabha river.

His son, Kirtivarman I (566-7), expanded the kingdom through wars against the Kadambas of Banavasi, the Mauryas of Konkan, and the Nalas in the Bastar region, bringing the important port of Goa into Chalukyan control.