Vasudeva Kanva (c. 75 – c. 66 BCE) was the founder of the Kanva dynasty.[1] He was originally an Amatya (minister) of last Shunga ruler Devabhuti. Vasudeva killed the last Shunga ruler and established Kanva dynasty.[2] Bana’s Harshacharita informs us that he came to power after the death of Devabhuti by a daughter of his slave woman disguised as his queen. He was succeeded by his son Bhumimitra.[3]
King Vasudeva was one of the famous patrons of arts.[