Who among the following was the court poet of Samudragupta?

The correct answer is Harishena.

Key Points

• Harishena was the court poet of Samudragupta, one of the greatest rulers of the Gupta dynasty.
• He composed the Allahabad Pillar Inscription, which provides a detailed account of Samudragupta's reign, achievements, and military conquests.
• The inscription is written in Sanskrit and uses the Prashasti (eulogy) style to glorify the king's accomplishments.
• Harishena held multiple roles in Samudragupta's court, serving as a poet, minister, and military commander.
• The Allahabad Pillar Inscription highlights Samudragupta's conquests, his patronage of art and culture, and his role as a benevolent ruler.

Additional Information

• Samudragupta:
  • Samudragupta was known as the Napoleon of India due to his extensive military campaigns and conquests.
  • He was a patron of art, literature, and music and is often depicted playing the veena in Gupta coins.
  • His reign marked the golden age of the Gupta dynasty, characterized by prosperity and cultural development.
• Allahabad Pillar Inscription:
  • The inscription is one of the most important historical sources for understanding the Gupta period.
  • It is engraved on the Ashokan pillar at Allahabad, originally erected by Emperor Ashoka and later reused by the Guptas.
  • The inscription details Samudragupta's military victories, including the subjugation of northern Indian rulers and his diplomatic relations with southern kingdoms.
• Gupta Dynasty:
  • The Gupta Empire is considered a golden age in Indian history due to advancements in science, technology, art, literature, and mathematics.
  • Prominent rulers of the dynasty include Chandragupta I, Samudragupta, and Chandragupta II.
• Prashasti:
  • Prashasti is a genre of inscriptions used to glorify rulers and their achievements.
  • They are written in Sanskrit and often include poetic language and exaggerated praise.