The ฤndhras were an ancient non-Aryan tribe of south-central Indian subcontinent, whose existence is attested during the Iron Age. The Eastern Deccan region inhabited by Andhras was called Andhradesa. The modern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, derives its name from this historic tribe and region.
Andhras were mentioned in Aitareya Brahmana of the Rigveda (c.โ800 BCE) as descendants of Sage Vishvamitra. In the Mahabharata the infantry of Satyaki was composed of a tribe called Andhras, known for their long hair, tall stature, sweet language, and mighty prowess. Andhras were also mentioned in the Bhagavata, Vayu, Skanda, Markandeya and Matsya Puranas. Buddhist references to Andhras are also found.