The word Yaudheyas is derived from the word ‘Yuddha’ meaning a warrior. The Yaudheyas were the Kshatriyas, they were well known for their skills in warfare. The Yaudehayas had ruled part of South-Eastern Punjab and Rajasthan. They declared their independence after the death of Pushyamitra Sunga in the middle of the second century B.C.E. We can find the reference of Yaudheyas in Ashtadhyayi of Panini as well as in Ganapati.

The Yaudheyas had survived the Mauryan and Shunga Empire as well as the Kshatraps and Kushanas. They were at their highest peak from 200 BC to 400 AD. It is believed that Yaudheyas had allied with other kingdoms like Kunindas, Malavas, Nagas, and other tribal republics to drive out Kushanas.

This copper coin that weighs around 10.7g was issued from Yaudheyas. The obverse of this coin depicts ‘Lord Kartikeya standing with Peacock, Brahmi legend “Yaudheya Ganasya Jaya’ around. The reverse of this coin depicts the goddess standing facing left.

Image Courtesy: Todywalla Auction