Nayanika

Nayanika (1st century BC) was the queen regent of the Satavahana dynasty during the minority of her son (circa 50-? AD).

She was the first woman historically confirmed to have ruled over an Indian kingdom (although there are legendary women rulers before her) with the exception of Agathokleia, who ruled in a part of India which later became Pakistan.

She was married to king Satakarni. She was the mother of king Satakarni II. Her son was a minor when he became king, and she ruled in his place as regent during his minority.

References

• Abraham Eraly, The First Spring: The Golden Age of India