Pulakeshin II (IAST: Pulakeœin, 610–642 CE), also spelt Pulakesi II and Pulikeshi II, was the most famous ruler of the Chalukya dynasty. During his reign, the Chalukyas of Badami saw their kingdom extend over most of the Deccan. Prithvi-vallabha was a title adopted by several kings that ruled in present-day India, including the Chalukyas of Vatapi, the Rashtrakutas and their successors. Pulakeshin then overran Kosala, ruled by the Panduvamshis. It was followed by victory over the Eastern Gangas of Kalinga and the capture of the fort of Pishtapura (Pithapuram). He subjugated the Vishnukundins and captured the Kunala area in the Vengi region. He appointed his brother Kubja Vishnuvardhana (also called Bittarasa) as viceroy of his Eastern territories (631). Vishnuvardhana eventually founded the dynasty of Eastern Chalukyas. The Chalukyas of Badami or Vatapi, who came into prominence in the 6th century, played a crucial role in the politics of Deccan and South India in particular, and played a significant role in the history of India as well. As the book addresses this crucial issue quite deftly, it is hoped that it would prove to be a source of great information for the reader.