Gupta Vakataka age MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Gupta Vakataka age - Download Free PDF

The correct answer is - Pravarsen I

Key Points

• Pravarsen I was the only king of the Vakataka dynasty to take the title of ‘Samrat’.
• The title ‘Samrat’ indicates a ruler who had achieved sovereignty over other kings, reflecting his supreme authority and political dominance.
• Pravarsen I expanded the Vakataka empire significantly, consolidating his power and establishing himself as a paramount ruler in the Indian subcontinent.
• He was a patron of Vedic culture and performed the prestigious Ashvamedha Yagna, a ritual that symbolized his legitimacy and supreme authority as an emperor.
• The Vakataka dynasty flourished under his reign, marking a period of prosperity and territorial expansion.

Additional Information

• The Vakataka Dynasty:
  • The Vakatakas were a prominent dynasty in ancient India, ruling parts of central and southern India from the 3rd to the 5th centuries CE.
  • They were contemporaries of the Gupta Empire and had close political and matrimonial alliances with the Guptas.
• Other Prominent Kings of the Vakataka Dynasty:
  • Vindhyashakti: The founder of the Vakataka dynasty, who laid the foundation for the dynasty's rise to power.
  • Rudrasen I: Played a significant role in consolidating the early Vakataka kingdom.
  • Pruthvishen I: Contributed to the stability of the kingdom but did not achieve the same level of prominence as Pravarsen I.
• Significance of the Ashvamedha Yagna:
  • This ancient Vedic ritual was performed by kings to assert their sovereignty and authority over neighboring territories.
  • The performance of this ritual by Pravarsen I highlights his ambition and status as a powerful ruler.

The correct answer is - Divakarasena

Key Points

• Vakataka Queen Prabhavati Gupta
  • She was a prominent queen of the Vakataka dynasty and played a crucial role in administering the kingdom.
  • Prabhavati Gupta was the daughter of the famous Gupta emperor Chandragupta II, also known as Chandragupta Vikramaditya.
  • After the death of her husband, Rudrasena II, she took charge of the Vakataka kingdom as a regent for her minor sons.
• Divakarasena
  • Divakarasena, her eldest son, was still a minor when Prabhavati Gupta assumed control of the administration.
  • As a regent, she ensured the stability and growth of the kingdom during his early years.
• Importance of her Regency
  • Her regency is noted for the influence of Gupta culture and policies on the Vakataka administration.
  • She issued several important inscriptions and grants during her time as the regent, reflecting her effective governance.

Additional Information

• Vakataka Dynasty
  • The Vakataka dynasty ruled over parts of central and southern India during the 3rd to 5th centuries CE.
  • They were contemporaries of the Gupta Empire and had matrimonial alliances with them.
  • Their rule is marked by significant cultural and political achievements, including patronage of art and literature.
• Role of Women in Ancient Indian Administration
  • Prabhavati Gupta is a notable example of a woman ruler who exercised significant political power in ancient India.
  • Other examples of women in administration include Rudramadevi and Ahilyabai Holkar.
  • Such instances demonstrate the capability and influence of women in governance, even in patriarchal societies.
• Gupta-Vakataka Relations
  • The marriage alliance between the Gupta and Vakataka dynasties strengthened their political and cultural ties.
  • The Gupta influence on the Vakatakas is evident in their administrative and cultural policies.
  • This alliance contributed to the stability and prosperity of the Vakataka kingdom under Prabhavati Gupta's regency.

The correct answer is - Vakataka

Key Points

• Rajatrangini
  • The Rajatrangini, written by Kalhana, is a historical chronicle of the rulers of Kashmir.
  • It primarily focuses on the history of Kashmir's dynasties, including the Karkotaka, Maurya, and Kushana dynasties.
• Vakataka Dynasty
  • The Vakataka dynasty was a powerful dynasty in central and southern India during ancient times.
  • However, it is not related to the history of Kashmir, and therefore, it is not mentioned in the Rajatrangini.
• Other Dynasties in Rajatrangini
  • The Karkotaka dynasty is detailed extensively as it played a major role in Kashmir's history.
  • References to the Maurya dynasty and Kushana dynasty appear in the text in relation to their influence on Kashmir.

Additional Information

• Rajatrangini's Historical Context
  • Written in the 12th century CE by Kalhana, the Rajatrangini is considered a seminal work in Indian historiography.
  • It is written in Sanskrit and provides detailed accounts of the rulers of Kashmir up to Kalhana's time.
  • The text is divided into eight books, known as "Tarangas," each focusing on different periods of Kashmir's history.
• Vakataka Dynasty Overview
  • The Vakataka dynasty ruled parts of central and southern India between the 3rd and 5th centuries CE.
  • They are known for their contributions to art, architecture (e.g., the Ajanta Caves), and their association with the Gupta Empire through matrimonial alliances.
  • Since they had no significant role in Kashmir's history, they are not mentioned in the Rajatrangini.
• Dynasties Mentioned in Rajatrangini
  • Karkotaka dynasty: Known for their significant contributions to Kashmir's culture and politics.
  • Maurya dynasty: Briefly mentioned in the text as a historical reference to their earlier influence.
  • Kushana dynasty: Referenced for their impact on trade and culture in the region.

The correct answer is - Vakatakas

Key Points

• Vakatakas are not mentioned in the Arya Manjushrimulakalpa, an important Buddhist text that preserves ancient Indian historical records.
• The Arya Manjushrimulakalpa primarily references dynasties significant to Buddhist history, such as the Guptas, Maitrakas, and Pushyabhutis, but excludes the Vakatakas.
• The Guptas were extensively recognized in Buddhist and historical texts due to their role in promoting Buddhism and creating an era of cultural flourishing.
• The Maitrakas and Pushyabhutis are similarly noted for their contributions to Indian history and religion.
• The Vakatakas, despite their significance in Indian history, were more closely associated with the Deccan region and Hindu traditions, which may explain their absence in this Buddhist text.

Additional Information

• Arya Manjushrimulakalpa
  • This ancient Buddhist text contains historical records and descriptions of political powers that influenced Buddhism and Indian culture.
  • It provides details on the reigns of various dynasties and their relationships with Buddhism.
• Guptas
  • The Gupta Empire is often referred to as the "Golden Age" of India due to advancements in art, literature, science, and religion.
  • Emperors like Chandragupta II and Kumaragupta were known for their patronage of Buddhism.
• Maitrakas
  • They ruled parts of western India and were known for their cultural contributions and support for Buddhism.
  • Their capital was located at Vallabhi, a center of Buddhist learning.
• Pushyabhutis
  • This dynasty, including rulers like Harshavardhana, played a key role in promoting Buddhism and Hinduism during their reign.
  • Harsha's court was known for its religious tolerance and patronage of Buddhist scholars.
• Vakatakas
  • They were a prominent dynasty in the Deccan region, known for their association with the Ajanta caves and Hindu traditions.
  • Their absence in the Arya Manjushrimulakalpa underscores their limited direct influence on Buddhist history as recorded in this text.

The correct answer is - Elichpur

Key Points

• Elichpur was never the capital of the Eastern branch of the Vakatakas.
• The Eastern branch of the Vakatakas had capitals such as:
  • Nandivardhan - A major administrative and cultural center during their rule.
  • Pravarpur - Named after Pravarsena I, an important ruler of the dynasty.
  • Padmapur - Another significant capital of the Eastern branch.
• Elichpur, however, was the capital of the Western branch of the Vakatakas, not the Eastern branch.
• This distinction is crucial to identifying the correct answer.

Additional Information

• Vakataka Dynasty
  • The Vakatakas were an important Indian dynasty that ruled parts of central and southern India during the 3rd to 5th centuries CE.
  • They are known to have been contemporaries of the Guptas and had matrimonial alliances with them.
• Eastern and Western branches
  • The Vakataka dynasty was divided into two branches:
    • The Eastern branch, which ruled from capitals like Nandivardhan and Pravarpur.
    • The Western branch, which ruled from Elichpur.
  • This division occurred due to territorial and administrative reasons.
• Key Rulers
  • Pravarsena I – A prominent ruler who expanded the Vakataka empire and established Pravarpur as a capital.
  • Rudrasena II – A ruler of the Western branch who maintained Elichpur as the capital.

The correct answer is - Pravarsen I

Key Points

• Pravarsen I was the only king of the Vakataka dynasty to take the title of ‘Samrat’.
• The title ‘Samrat’ indicates a ruler who had achieved sovereignty over other kings, reflecting his supreme authority and political dominance.
• Pravarsen I expanded the Vakataka empire significantly, consolidating his power and establishing himself as a paramount ruler in the Indian subcontinent.
• He was a patron of Vedic culture and performed the prestigious Ashvamedha Yagna, a ritual that symbolized his legitimacy and supreme authority as an emperor.
• The Vakataka dynasty flourished under his reign, marking a period of prosperity and territorial expansion.

Additional Information

• The Vakataka Dynasty:
  • The Vakatakas were a prominent dynasty in ancient India, ruling parts of central and southern India from the 3rd to the 5th centuries CE.
  • They were contemporaries of the Gupta Empire and had close political and matrimonial alliances with the Guptas.
• Other Prominent Kings of the Vakataka Dynasty:
  • Vindhyashakti: The founder of the Vakataka dynasty, who laid the foundation for the dynasty's rise to power.
  • Rudrasen I: Played a significant role in consolidating the early Vakataka kingdom.
  • Pruthvishen I: Contributed to the stability of the kingdom but did not achieve the same level of prominence as Pravarsen I.
• Significance of the Ashvamedha Yagna:
  • This ancient Vedic ritual was performed by kings to assert their sovereignty and authority over neighboring territories.
  • The performance of this ritual by Pravarsen I highlights his ambition and status as a powerful ruler.

The correct answer is - Divakarasena

Key Points

• Vakataka Queen Prabhavati Gupta
  • She was a prominent queen of the Vakataka dynasty and played a crucial role in administering the kingdom.
  • Prabhavati Gupta was the daughter of the famous Gupta emperor Chandragupta II, also known as Chandragupta Vikramaditya.
  • After the death of her husband, Rudrasena II, she took charge of the Vakataka kingdom as a regent for her minor sons.
• Divakarasena
  • Divakarasena, her eldest son, was still a minor when Prabhavati Gupta assumed control of the administration.
  • As a regent, she ensured the stability and growth of the kingdom during his early years.
• Importance of her Regency
  • Her regency is noted for the influence of Gupta culture and policies on the Vakataka administration.
  • She issued several important inscriptions and grants during her time as the regent, reflecting her effective governance.

Additional Information

• Vakataka Dynasty
  • The Vakataka dynasty ruled over parts of central and southern India during the 3rd to 5th centuries CE.
  • They were contemporaries of the Gupta Empire and had matrimonial alliances with them.
  • Their rule is marked by significant cultural and political achievements, including patronage of art and literature.
• Role of Women in Ancient Indian Administration
  • Prabhavati Gupta is a notable example of a woman ruler who exercised significant political power in ancient India.
  • Other examples of women in administration include Rudramadevi and Ahilyabai Holkar.
  • Such instances demonstrate the capability and influence of women in governance, even in patriarchal societies.
• Gupta-Vakataka Relations
  • The marriage alliance between the Gupta and Vakataka dynasties strengthened their political and cultural ties.
  • The Gupta influence on the Vakatakas is evident in their administrative and cultural policies.
  • This alliance contributed to the stability and prosperity of the Vakataka kingdom under Prabhavati Gupta's regency.

The correct answer is - Vakataka

Key Points

• Rajatrangini
  • The Rajatrangini, written by Kalhana, is a historical chronicle of the rulers of Kashmir.
  • It primarily focuses on the history of Kashmir's dynasties, including the Karkotaka, Maurya, and Kushana dynasties.
• Vakataka Dynasty
  • The Vakataka dynasty was a powerful dynasty in central and southern India during ancient times.
  • However, it is not related to the history of Kashmir, and therefore, it is not mentioned in the Rajatrangini.
• Other Dynasties in Rajatrangini
  • The Karkotaka dynasty is detailed extensively as it played a major role in Kashmir's history.
  • References to the Maurya dynasty and Kushana dynasty appear in the text in relation to their influence on Kashmir.

Additional Information

• Rajatrangini's Historical Context
  • Written in the 12th century CE by Kalhana, the Rajatrangini is considered a seminal work in Indian historiography.
  • It is written in Sanskrit and provides detailed accounts of the rulers of Kashmir up to Kalhana's time.
  • The text is divided into eight books, known as "Tarangas," each focusing on different periods of Kashmir's history.
• Vakataka Dynasty Overview
  • The Vakataka dynasty ruled parts of central and southern India between the 3rd and 5th centuries CE.
  • They are known for their contributions to art, architecture (e.g., the Ajanta Caves), and their association with the Gupta Empire through matrimonial alliances.
  • Since they had no significant role in Kashmir's history, they are not mentioned in the Rajatrangini.
• Dynasties Mentioned in Rajatrangini
  • Karkotaka dynasty: Known for their significant contributions to Kashmir's culture and politics.
  • Maurya dynasty: Briefly mentioned in the text as a historical reference to their earlier influence.
  • Kushana dynasty: Referenced for their impact on trade and culture in the region.

The correct answer is - Vakatakas

Key Points

• Vakatakas are not mentioned in the Arya Manjushrimulakalpa, an important Buddhist text that preserves ancient Indian historical records.
• The Arya Manjushrimulakalpa primarily references dynasties significant to Buddhist history, such as the Guptas, Maitrakas, and Pushyabhutis, but excludes the Vakatakas.
• The Guptas were extensively recognized in Buddhist and historical texts due to their role in promoting Buddhism and creating an era of cultural flourishing.
• The Maitrakas and Pushyabhutis are similarly noted for their contributions to Indian history and religion.
• The Vakatakas, despite their significance in Indian history, were more closely associated with the Deccan region and Hindu traditions, which may explain their absence in this Buddhist text.

Additional Information

• Arya Manjushrimulakalpa
  • This ancient Buddhist text contains historical records and descriptions of political powers that influenced Buddhism and Indian culture.
  • It provides details on the reigns of various dynasties and their relationships with Buddhism.
• Guptas
  • The Gupta Empire is often referred to as the "Golden Age" of India due to advancements in art, literature, science, and religion.
  • Emperors like Chandragupta II and Kumaragupta were known for their patronage of Buddhism.
• Maitrakas
  • They ruled parts of western India and were known for their cultural contributions and support for Buddhism.
  • Their capital was located at Vallabhi, a center of Buddhist learning.
• Pushyabhutis
  • This dynasty, including rulers like Harshavardhana, played a key role in promoting Buddhism and Hinduism during their reign.
  • Harsha's court was known for its religious tolerance and patronage of Buddhist scholars.
• Vakatakas
  • They were a prominent dynasty in the Deccan region, known for their association with the Ajanta caves and Hindu traditions.
  • Their absence in the Arya Manjushrimulakalpa underscores their limited direct influence on Buddhist history as recorded in this text.

The correct answer is - Elichpur

Key Points

• Elichpur was never the capital of the Eastern branch of the Vakatakas.
• The Eastern branch of the Vakatakas had capitals such as:
  • Nandivardhan - A major administrative and cultural center during their rule.
  • Pravarpur - Named after Pravarsena I, an important ruler of the dynasty.
  • Padmapur - Another significant capital of the Eastern branch.
• Elichpur, however, was the capital of the Western branch of the Vakatakas, not the Eastern branch.
• This distinction is crucial to identifying the correct answer.

Additional Information

• Vakataka Dynasty
  • The Vakatakas were an important Indian dynasty that ruled parts of central and southern India during the 3rd to 5th centuries CE.
  • They are known to have been contemporaries of the Guptas and had matrimonial alliances with them.
• Eastern and Western branches
  • The Vakataka dynasty was divided into two branches:
    • The Eastern branch, which ruled from capitals like Nandivardhan and Pravarpur.
    • The Western branch, which ruled from Elichpur.
  • This division occurred due to territorial and administrative reasons.
• Key Rulers
  • Pravarsena I – A prominent ruler who expanded the Vakataka empire and established Pravarpur as a capital.
  • Rudrasena II – A ruler of the Western branch who maintained Elichpur as the capital.

The correct answer is - Vindhyashakti

Key Points

• Vindhyashakti
  • He was the founder of the Vakataka dynasty, which played a significant role in ancient Indian history.
  • The Vakataka dynasty emerged during the mid-3rd century CE and ruled parts of central and southern India.
  • Vindhyashakti is mentioned in inscriptions as the first ruler of this dynasty, laying the foundation for its later expansion and influence.
  • His rule marked the beginning of the Vakataka lineage, which later became known for its contributions to art, culture, and administration.

Additional Information

• Vakataka dynasty
  • The Vakatakas were contemporaries of the Gupta Empire and were known for their significant cultural and political influence in Deccan India.
  • The dynasty's most notable ruler was Pravarasena I, who expanded the kingdom and declared himself a Samrat (Emperor).
  • They are also credited with promoting art and architecture, such as the famous Ajanta Caves, which were patronized by the Vakataka rulers.
• Geographical Extent
  • The Vakataka kingdom covered regions of modern-day Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and parts of Andhra Pradesh.
  • It served as a connecting link between northern and southern India, facilitating cultural and political exchanges.
• Legacy
  • The Vakataka dynasty is remembered for its contributions to the spread of Hinduism and its support for Vedic traditions.
  • They played a crucial role in shaping the political and cultural landscape of ancient India during their reign.

The correct answer is - Sthavirachal

Key Points

• Ajanta Cave No. 24
  • The Ajanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Maharashtra, India, and are famous for their stunning Buddhist rock-cut architecture and paintings.
  • Cave No. 24 is particularly significant due to its architectural uniqueness and the inscriptions found on its walls.
• Sthavirachal
  • The name Sthavirachal is mentioned in the inscription of Ajanta Cave No. 24 as a Buddhist monk.
  • He is noted for his association with Buddhist teachings and his contribution to the development of the caves.
  • This makes the name Sthavirachal historically significant in the context of Indian Buddhist heritage.
• Inscriptions
  • The inscriptions in Ajanta Caves provide important historical and religious information about the patrons, monks, and artists involved in their creation.
  • These inscriptions are a valuable source for understanding the spread of Buddhism in India.

Additional Information

• Ajanta Caves
  • The Ajanta Caves consist of 29 rock-cut caves dating back to the 2nd century BCE to 480 CE.
  • They are divided into two phases:
    • The earlier Hinayana phase (2nd century BCE to 1st century CE), primarily characterized by stupa-centered worship.
    • The later Mahayana phase (5th to 6th century CE), which introduced Buddha images and elaborate paintings.
• Significance of Inscribed Names
  • Names like Sthavirachal help historians identify key individuals who played a role in the propagation of Buddhism.
  • They also provide insights into the social, religious, and cultural context of the time.
• Architectural Features
  • Ajanta Cave No. 24 is known for its unfinished state, showcasing the techniques used by ancient artisans.
  • It features a large pillared hall, indicative of the grandeur planned for this cave.

The correct answer is - Hamalapuri

Key Points

• Hamalapuri is not associated with the temple sites of the Vakatakas.
  • The Vakatakas were a prominent dynasty in ancient India, known for their patronage of art, architecture, and religion.
  • Notable temple sites associated with the Vakatakas include Mandhal, Ramtek, and Nagara.
  • Hamalapuri, however, does not appear in records as a Vakataka temple site, distinguishing it from the other options.

Additional Information

• Vakataka Dynasty
  • The Vakatakas ruled in central and southern India between the 3rd and 5th centuries CE.
  • They were successors of the Satavahanas and are known for their contributions to Indian art and culture, including cave temples and sculptures.
  • Their realm included parts of present-day Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.
• Famous Temple Sites
  • Mandhal: Known for its ancient temples and inscriptions linked to the Vakatakas.
  • Ramtek: Associated with religious and architectural achievements during the Vakataka period.
  • Nagara: Another significant site reflecting the Vakataka dynasty's contributions to temple architecture.
• Art and Culture
  • The Vakatakas were patrons of the Ajanta Caves, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • These caves feature intricate murals and sculptures, showcasing the artistic excellence of the period.

The correct answer is: 'D) Only A and C are correct.'

Key Points

• Statement A: The Gupta period is often referred to as the "Golden Age" of Indian history.
  • This statement is correct.
  • The Gupta period (circa 4th to 6th century CE) is known as the "Golden Age" due to significant advancements in art, literature, science, and mathematics.
  • During this time, Indian culture and knowledge flourished, producing notable contributions like the concept of zero, Sanskrit literature, and classical art.
• Statement C: Gupta rulers patronized Hinduism, and some also promoted Buddhism.
  • This statement is correct.
  • The Gupta rulers primarily patronized Hinduism, promoting the construction of Hindu temples and supporting Hindu practices and literature.
  • However, they were generally tolerant of other religions, and some rulers supported Buddhism and Jainism, allowing these religions to flourish during their reign.

Incorrect Statements

• Statement B: It witnessed the beginning of large-scale maritime trade.
  • This statement is incorrect.
  • Large-scale maritime trade had already begun during the Maurya period and earlier, with Indian merchants engaging in trade across the Indian Ocean.
  • Although the Gupta period continued these trade practices, it was not the beginning of maritime trade on a large scale.
• Statement D: The empire was established by Harsha.
  • This statement is incorrect.
  • The Gupta Empire was founded by Chandragupta I around 320 CE, not by Harsha.
  • Harsha was a later ruler (606-647 CE) who established his own empire in northern India but was not connected to the Gupta dynasty.

Hence, Statements A and C are correct, making Option D the correct answer.

Additional Information

• Gupta Contributions to Mathematics and Science:
  • Mathematicians like Aryabhata and Varahamihira made pioneering contributions in fields like astronomy, mathematics, and astrology during the Gupta period.
  • The concept of zero, decimal system, and advancements in algebra and geometry are notable achievements from this era.

The correct answer is - C. 1, 2, and 4 only

Key Points

• The Ryotwari system was introduced by Sir Thomas Munro in the early 19th century, while the Mahalwari system was formalized by Holt Mackenzie in the 1820s.
  • Sir Thomas Munro introduced the Ryotwari system in the early 19th century, initially implemented in the Madras and Bombay Presidencies.
  • Holt Mackenzie formalized the Mahalwari system in the 1820s, particularly in the North-Western Provinces and parts of Central India.
• Under the Ryotwari system, land revenue was assessed on each individual cultivator, whereas, in the Mahalwari system, the assessment was made collectively on the village or the estate (mahal).
  • In the Ryotwari system, each cultivator (ryot) was individually responsible for paying land revenue directly to the government.
  • In the Mahalwari system, revenue was assessed collectively on the entire village or mahal, and often the head or representative of the village distributed the revenue burden among the cultivators.
• The Mahalwari system was initially designed to be more flexible and adaptable to local customs and practices compared to the Ryotwari system, which imposed a more standardized revenue policy.
  • The Mahalwari system aimed to be adaptable and took into consideration the local customs, practices, and social structures of the villages.
  • The Ryotwari system, on the other hand, applied a standardized approach across large regions, focusing on a direct individual relationship between the cultivator and the state.

Additional Information

• Direct Relationships and Intermediaries:
  • The Ryotwari system facilitated direct interactions between individual farmers and the government without intermediaries like zamindars.
  • Contrary to the statement, the Mahalwari system did not necessarily rely on zamindars but on village heads or representatives to manage the collective revenue assessment. Therefore, statement 3 is incorrect.