Meaning of the term Gandhika used during Satavahana Empire
The term “Gandhika” referred to a tax or toll that was levied on goods transported through a specific route or region during the Satavahana Empire. The word “Gandhika” is derived from the Sanskrit word “Gandha,” which means “scent” or “aroma.”
The Gandhika tax was levied on goods that were transported through certain routes, such as river routes, mountain passes, or trade routes. The tax was collected by the Satavahana administration to generate revenue and maintain control over trade and commerce.
The Gandhika tax was a significant source of revenue for the Satavahana Empire, as it was levied on all kinds of goods that were transported through the designated routes. The tax rate varied depending on the type of goods being transported and the distance covered.
The collection of the Gandhika tax was entrusted to officials called “Gandhikas,” who were responsible for ensuring that the tax was collected efficiently and that the traders paid the required amount. The Gandhikas were also responsible for maintaining law and order along the designated routes and protecting the traders from bandits and other threats.
Overall, the Gandhika tax played an important role in the economy of the Satavahana Empire, and its efficient collection helped to maintain the stability and prosperity of the kingdom.