What is a prashasti and why was it significant during the Gupta period?

A prashasti is a Sanskrit inscription composed in praise of rulers, which became especially important during the Gupta period as it documented the achievements and virtues of kings like Samudragupta.

True or False: Samudragupta allowed all rulers he defeated to continue ruling their territories without any conditions.

False. Samudragupta allowed some rulers to continue ruling after surrendering, but he uprooted Aryavarta rulers and brought their kingdoms into his empire.

Which areas did Samudragupta's empire encompass according to the prashasti?

The empire included areas in Aryavarta, Dakshinapatha, and neighboring states like Assam and coastal Bengal, as well as territories of outlying rulers such as the Kushanas and Shakas.

Riddle: I am a title of praise for a king, inscribed to tell of their glory, what am I?

Prashasti

How did Samudragupta deal with the rulers of Dakshinapatha?

Samudragupta surrendered or defeated twelve rulers from Dakshinapatha, allowing some to rule again under his authority.

What was the significance of the Ashokan pillar at Allahabad in relation to Samudragupta?

The Ashokan pillar at Allahabad contains an inscription that provides historical information about Samudragupta and his reign, highlighting his accomplishments and status.

Who was Samudragupta's mother, and which gana did she belong to?

Samudragupta's mother was Kumara Devi, and she belonged to the Lichchhavi gana.

Fill in the blanks: Samudragupta's father, Chandragupta, was the first Gupta ruler to adopt the title of ___.

Maharajadhiraja

True or False: The great-grandfather and grandfather of Samudragupta were referred to as maharajas, indicating their low status.

False. They were referred to as maha-rajas, signifying the family's rise to importance.

What significant achievements are attributed to Chandragupta II?

Chandragupta II is known for his inscriptions, coins, and leading an expedition to western India, where he defeated the last of the Shakas.

Riddle: I am a title held by the first ruler of the Gupta dynasty, and my name is associated with great power. What am I?

Maharajadhiraja

Fill in the blanks: Samudragupta's genealogies were included by later rulers, such as his son ___.

Chandragupta II

Harshavardhana became king of Thanesar after the deaths of which family members?

Harshavardhana became king of Thanesar after the deaths of his father and elder brother.

What significant military limitation did Harshavardhana encounter during his attempts to expand into the Deccan?

Harshavardhana was stopped from advancing into the Deccan by the ruler of the Chalukya dynasty, Pulakeshin II, at the Narmada river.

Riddle: I am a ruler who rose to power not through birthright but through loss. My biography is written in Sanskrit. Who am I?

Harshavardhana

What account did Xuan Zang provide regarding Harshavardhana?

Xuan Zang, a Chinese traveler, provided a detailed account of Harsha's court.

Multiple Choice: Which kingdom did Harshavardhana take over after the death of his brother-in-law? A) Kanauj B) Bengal C) Magadha D) Thanesar

A) Kanauj

The kingdoms of the Pallavas and Chalukyas were significant in which region of India?

South India