There were many developments of literature during Satavahana Period. Prakrit was the primary language used by the royal court and desi (early telugu) was the language used by common people.
Note about Desi Language
According to Hostorians Desi, was an earliest form of telugu language which was more similar to proto dravidian form than it is now. Later Satavahana kings like Gauthamiputra Satakarni, Vastistiputra pulamovi and Yajna Satakarni had their names in two languages i.e.; Prakrit and Desi, a native language
The literary works of Satavahanas Include:
Gatha Saptashati (In prakrit but also contains Desi words)- By 17th king Hala written in prakrit consists of romantic poems and also tells about the social life of the people during satavahanas.
Katantra Vyakarana (in sanskrit) – by Sharmvarma in the court of kuntala shatakarni
Brihadkatha – Another notable sanskrit text by Gunadya during the period of kuntala shatakarni
Leelavati Parinayam (in Prakrit) – this book is about the marriage of Hala with srilankan princess (sinhala princess ) leelavati.
Hala patronised many poets in his court and thus he borne the title of kavivatsala.
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