Satavahana rulers were identified through metronymics (names derived from that of the mother). The metronymics were borne by the later Satavahanas and not by the early Satavahanas. It was mainly because he Satavahanas had to establish matrimonial alliance with Maharath is. The Satavahanas having metronymics may suggest that mothers were important, we need to be cautious before we arrive at any conclusion. In the case of the Satavahanas we know that succession to the throne was generally patrilineal.