The kings of the Sena dynasty started to rule in Bengal in the 11th century. Their dynasty came to an end towards the beginning of the 13th century. The rulers of the Sena dynasty were originally from the Karnata region of South India, i.e. Mysore and its surrounding areas. Originally they were Brahmins, but later became Kshatriyas Samantasena of the Sena lineage had left Karnata for Radh some time ago. During the rule of Samantasena and his son Hemantasena, the Senas had developed some domination over the Radh region. Vijaysena (c.1096-1159), the son of Hemantasena, expanded the territory of the Sena dynasty by occupying Radh, Gauda, eastern Bengal and Mithila.Ballalsena, the next ruler (c.1159-1179) defeated the Pala king Gobindapala. Thus Ballalsena struck the final blow on the Palas. He reformed the society and established orthodox Brahmanical rites and practices. His son and successor Lakshmanasena (A.D. 1179-1204/5 ) established his domination over Prayag, Benaras and Puri. His capital was Bikrampur in eastern Bengal. Another important town of that period was Lakshmanavati (Gauda). In A.D. 1204/5 the Sena dynasty came to an end with the invasion of the Turks.