Avanti was one of the most important and powerful states of ancient India. It consisted of modern Malva, Nilmar and some parts of
Madhya Pradesh. The capital of Avanti was
Ujjain. During Buddha's life time, it was ruled by Pradyota, a very cruel ruler who later came under the influence of
Buddhism.
Lord Buddha made Avanti, the center of his activities. After the time of Pradyota, Avanti saw a fall and the last ruler was Nandiverdhana. He was defeated by Saisunaga, in the 4th century, and the kingdom was annexed to the Magadha Empire.
