Phani Mukut Rai

Phani Mukut Rai (c.83- c.177 CE) was first Nagvanshi king. He was founder of Nagvanshi dynasty.

According to Nag Vanshavali, Phani Mukut Rai was son of Pundrik Naga a Naga and Parvati, a Brahmin girl from Varanasi. Pundrika Naga turned into a cobra during pilgrimage to Puri and his wife Parvati committed Sati. A Brahmin name Janardan found the child and named him Phani Mukut Rai. Brahmin was Raj purohit of Raja Madra Munda. He was adopted by Raja Madra Munda, the parha chief of Sutiambe village. Madra Munda brought up the Phani Mukut Rai with his own son Mukut Rai. However the story is mostly considered a myth.

Phani Mukut Rai was elected asRaja by Parha chief and other Raja due to his qualities. His capital was at Sutiambe which is now located in Ranchi district. During his reign he defeated Rakshel of Korambe and invaders from Kendujhar with the help of king of Panchet. His rule was extended to Badin of Kharsawan, Ramgarh, Gola, Tori and Gharwe. He built sun temple in Suitabe which is now in ruin condition. He invited Panda from Puri and established idols in thakurbadi. He established brahmin by giving them village of Sornda and Mahugaon. During his reign several people came from different parts of country. Srivastav Kasthya, Pande Bhao Rai were his diwan. He succeeded by his son Mukut Rai.

He married the daughter of Govanshi Raja of Panchet.