Kshatrapa

A Kshatrapa was a ruler or governor in ancient India, particularly during the Western Satraps period (around 1st to 4th centuries CE). They governed regions in western India, especially Gujarat and Maharashtra, acting as local leaders under larger empires or on their own. The title "Kshatrapa" is derived from Persian, meaning "protector of the realm." These rulers oversaw administration, collected taxes, and maintained military strength. Their rule was characterized by a blend of local Indian traditions and influences from the Persian and Greek worlds, reflecting the diverse cultural interactions of that era.