With the decline of the Gupta dynasty and their immediate successors in northern India in the sixth century, major changes began to happen in the area south of the Vindyas – the Deccan and Tamilaham.

The age of small kingdoms had given way to large empires in this region.

The Chalukya dynasty was established by Pulakesi I in 543.

Pulakesi I takes Vatapi (modern Badami in Bagalkot district, Karnataka) under his control and makes it his capital.

Pulakesi I and his descendants are referred to as "Chalukyas of Badami".

They rule over an empire that comprises the entire state of Karnataka and most of Andhra Pradesh in the Deccan.