Test: Political & Social Conditions (800-1200 A.D)- 2 - UPSC MCQ

• Govind III, a prominent ruler of the Rashtrakuta dynasty, defeated Nagabhatta II of the Pratihara dynasty.
•  The conflict between the Pratiharas and Rashtrakutas was part of the tripartite struggle for control over northern India, including the region around Kannauj.
• Nagabhatta II's defeat was significant because it demonstrated the Rashtrakutas' military prowess and temporarily weakened the Pratiharas.
•  This victory allowed Govind III to assert dominance over the northern territories during his reign.

Therefore , Correct Answer : Option B

The Pratihara ruler Vatsaraja defeated the Pala ruler Dharmapala in a battle near Prayag. Vatsaraja was the first ruler of Rajasthan to win victories in distant regions like Kanauj and Bengal. He extended his rule over a large part of North India and made Kannauj his capital.

Nagabhatta I, the founder of the Pratihara dynasty, was the second king after his predecessor (Vatsaraja) to defeat Dharmapala, the Pala ruler. Nagabhatta I effectively drove away Dharmapala’s protégé from Kanauj and established Pratihara dominance in the region. This victory marked a significant milestone in the early history of the Pratiharas during the tripartite struggle among the Pratiharas, Palas, and Rashtrakutas for control of Kanauj.
Therefore , Correct Answer : Option D

• (A) Gahadvala - (II) Chandradeva
  Chandradeva was the founder of the Gahadvala dynasty, which rose to prominence in the 11th century in the region of Kanauj.

• (B) Paramaras - (IV) Upendra
  Upendra, also known as Krishnaraja, was the founder of the Paramara dynasty, which ruled over Malwa in central India.

• (C) Gurjara Pratiharas - (I) Nagabhatta I
  Nagabhatta I was the founder of the Gurjara Pratihara dynasty and played a key role in establishing their dominance in western and northern India.

• (D) Chandelas - (III) Yasovarman
  Yasovarman was an important ruler of the Chandela dynasty, known for constructing the famous Khajuraho temples.

 Therefore,Correct Answer : Option  B

When Mahmud of Ghazni attacked and plundered the famous Somnath Temple in Gujarat in 1025 CE, the ruler of Gujarat was Bhima I, a king of the Chalukya (Solanki) dynasty. Bhima I faced significant challenges due to this attack, and Mahmud’s invasion is noted for its devastating impact on the temple and the region.
Therefore , Correct  Answer - Option C

Al-Masudi, an Arab traveler and historian of the early 10th century, visited India and documented his observations in his work Muruj-al-Dhahab ("The Meadows of Gold"). During his visit, he came into contact with the Rashtrakuta Empire and its ruler, Indra-III. The Rashtrakuta Empire, under Indra-III, was a prominent power in southern and central India during this period.
Therefore, Correct Answer : Option A

Mihira Bhoja (ruled c. 836–885 CE) was the greatest ruler of the Pratihara dynasty. He is best known for his extensive military conquests, efficient administration, and promotion of art and culture. Under Mihira Bhoja, the Pratihara Empire reached its zenith, controlling vast territories across northern India. He successfully resisted invasions from the Palas and the Rashtrakutas during the tripartite struggle over Kanauj and maintained the empire's dominance for decades.

Therefore, Correct Answer - Option A

Rajyapala was the last significant ruler of the Pratihara dynasty, which was in decline during his reign. He is historically known for surrendering to Mahmud of Ghazni during his invasions. Rajyapala’s failure to resist Mahmud tarnished his reputation among contemporary rulers, including the Chandelas. Eventually, Vidyadhara, the Chandela king, defeated and killed Rajyapala, marking the effective end of Pratihara power.
Therefore , Correct Answer : Option C

The correct answer is B: Nagabhatta II.

•  Nagabhatta II was a prominent ruler of the Pratihara dynasty.
•  He is known for his military prowess and expansion of the Pratihara empire.
•  During his reign, he successfully defeated the Pala king Dharmapala at the battle of Monghyr, establishing Pratihara dominance.
•  This victory was crucial as it asserted the Pratihara power in northern India, countering the influence of the Palas from Bengal.

• The Pala Empire, which ruled over Bengal and Bihar from the 8th to the 12th centuries CE, was eventually overthrown by the Sena dynasty.
• Founded by Hemanta Sena, the Sena dynasty rose to prominence under Vijayasena and his son Ballalasena.
• They systematically dismantled Pala power and established their own rule over Bengal.
• Answer: The Sena dynasty—who destroyed the Pala supremacy in Bengal.
• Hence, option B is correct

The Senas, who succeeded the Palas in Bengal, originally came from the Deccan region.They were of South Indian origin and claimed descent from the Karnataka region. Vijayasena, the founder of the Sena dynasty, overthrew the declining Pala rulers in the 12th century and established control over Bengal, ushering in a new era of Sena rule.

Therefore ,Correct Answer : Option D

• Ballala Sena introduced social reforms and revived orthodox Hindu rites: Correct
  Ballala Sena was a prominent king of the Sena dynasty who is credited with introducing significant social reforms in Bengal. He revived orthodox Hindu practices and strengthened the caste system by formalizing practices like Kulinism, which emphasized social hierarchies.
• Bhalla Sena probably founded Kulinism, a system of nobility: Correct
  Bhalla Sena is traditionally credited with the establishment of Kulinism, a system that organized Brahmins and Kayasthas into hierarchical groups based on lineage and social purity. This system reinforced social structures during the Sena rule.
• The last ruler of the dynasty was Keshava Sena: Correct
  The last significant ruler of the Sena dynasty was Keshava Sena. His rule ended when Bengal was conquered by Bakhtiyar Khalji, a general of the Delhi Sultanate, marking the decline of Sena dominance in the region.
• They never experienced the terror of Islamic invaders: Incorrect
  The statement is false. The Sena dynasty faced the terror of Islamic invaders during its decline. The dynasty came to an end with the invasion of Bakhtiyar Khalji, who defeated Keshava Sena and established Muslim rule in Bengal.

Therefore, Correct Answer - Option D

• He was a devout Vaishnava: Correct
  Lakshmana Sena, a ruler of the Sena dynasty, was a devout follower of Vaishnavism. He patronized Hinduism, particularly the worship of Lord Vishnu, and supported poets and scholars who often expressed their devotion through their works.
• He was a great conqueror and probably he defeated the rulers of Kamarupa, Kalinga, and Kashi: Correct
  Lakshmana Sena is credited with extending his kingdom through military campaigns. Historical records suggest that he might have defeated the rulers of Kamarupa (Assam), Kalinga (Odisha), and Kashi (Varanasi), showcasing his capabilities as a conqueror.
• Aibak defeated him in 1208 A.D.: Incorrect
  Lakshmana Sena fled Bengal in 1204 A.D. after an invasion by Bakhtiyar Khalji, a Turkish general under the Ghurid Empire, not by Qutb-ud-din Aibak. This invasion marked the decline of the Sena dynasty's power in Bengal.
• Jayadeva, the author of Gita Govinda and Dhoyi, the author of Pavanadura, adorned his court: Correct
  The court of Lakshmana Sena was a hub of literary activity, and it was adorned by prominent poets such as Jayadeva, the author of the Gita Govinda, and Dhoyi, the author of Pavanaduta. This highlights his patronage of culture and literature.

Therefore, Correct Answer - Option C

The Hindu Shahi dynasty ruled northwestern India, primarily in the regions of present-day Afghanistan and Pakistan, between the 9th and 11th centuries A.D. Kallar (or Kalles) is traditionally considered the founder of the Hindu Shahi dynasty, which emerged after the decline of the Kabul Shahi dynasty.

Kallar was initially a minister in the declining Kabul Shahi kingdom. He later usurped the throne and established the Hindu Shahi dynasty, which became a significant power in northwestern India. The dynasty played a crucial role in resisting the early Islamic invasions, particularly by Mahmud of Ghazni.

The Karnata dynasty did not rule over Kashmir between 800 A.D. and 1200 A.D. The major dynasties that ruled Kashmir during this period include:

1. The Karkotaka dynasty: They ruled from the 7th to the 9th century A.D. and were prominent during the early medieval period of Kashmir’s history. The famous ruler Lalitaditya Muktapida belonged to this dynasty.

2. The Utpala dynasty: They succeeded the Karkotaka dynasty and ruled Kashmir during the 9th and 10th centuries A.D. Their reign included significant rulers such as Avantivarman, known for his contributions to the development of agriculture and irrigation.

3. The Lohara dynasty: This dynasty ruled Kashmir from the 11th to the 12th centuries A.D. They were successors to the Utpala dynasty. Prominent rulers like Harsha of the Lohara dynasty are well-known in Kashmiri history.

Therefore, Correct Answer : Option C

Raja Sekhar, a renowned Sanskrit scholar and poet, adorned the court of Mahendrapala, a prominent king of the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty. Mahendrapala succeeded his father Mihira Bhoja and ruled during the late 9th and early 10th centuries. His reign is notable for promoting art, literature, and culture, and his court was a center of intellectual activity.

Therefore, Correct Answer - Option A

Jayachandra, the ruler of the Gahadvala dynasty, did not assist Prithviraja Chauhan against Muhammad Ghori due to their intense rivalry. Jayachandra saw Prithviraja as a political competitor and believed that Prithviraja’s defeat would pave the way for his own dominance in northern India. This lack of unity among Indian rulers significantly contributed to Muhammad Ghori's success in establishing control over the region.

Therefore, Correct Answer - Option B

Jayapala, the ruler of the Hindu Shahi dynasty, was first defeated by Sabuktigin, the founder of the Ghaznavid dynasty, and later by Mahmud of Ghazni. Jayapala fought several battles to resist these invasions but suffered major defeats. After a significant loss to Mahmud of Ghazni, Jayapala committed self-immolation as an act of atonement for his perceived failure.
Therefore, Correct Answer - Option C

Gangeyadeva was a ruler of the Kalachuri dynasty of Tripuri in central India. His kingdom was centered around the Chedi or Dahala region in present-day Madhya Pradesh. During the early part of his reign, Gangeyadeva seems to have ruled as a vassal, possibly that of the Paramara king Bhoja.

Vakpati Munja, also known as Munja, was a Paramara king of Malwa. He is said to have defeated Tailapa II, a Chalukya ruler of the Western Chalukya dynasty, six times in battle. However, in their final encounter, Tailapa II managed to capture and execute Munja. This rivalry between the Paramaras and the Chalukyas is a significant aspect of early medieval Indian history.
Therefore, Correct Answer - Option B

Bhoja Paramara, one of the greatest rulers of the Paramara dynasty, was also a renowned scholar and patron of arts and literature. He is credited with writing several works across diverse fields:

1. Ayurveda-Sarvasva: A treatise on Ayurveda (Indian traditional medicine).
2. Samarangana-Sutradhara: A detailed work on architecture and engineering, including a section on building construction and town planning.
3. Vyavahara-Samuktchaya: A work on jurisprudence and legal procedures.

This demonstrates Bhoja's wide-ranging intellectual contributions, covering medicine, architecture, and law.
Therefore, Correct Answer - Option D

Ganda, a Chandela king, joined the coalition led by Anandapala Shahi in 1008 A.D. to resist the invasion of Mahmud of Ghazni. This coalition included several rulers from northwestern and central India, aiming to defend their territories against Mahmud's aggressive campaigns. Despite their combined efforts, Mahmud defeated the coalition in the Battle of Waihind, marking a significant victory for him in his invasions of India.

Therefore, Correct Answer - Option D

The Chandela king Vidyadhara offered the most successful resistance against Mahmud of Ghazni during his campaigns in India. Vidyadhara is known for his military strength and strategic defense, particularly during Mahmud's attempt to invade the Chandela territories. Mahmud could not achieve a decisive victory over Vidyadhara, and the Chandelas remained a strong power in central India even after Mahmud's invasions.

Therefore, Correct Answer - Option A

Jayapida or Vinayaditya was the grandson of Lalitaditya Muktapida, the greatest ruler of the Karkota dynasty. He is credited for many adventures. It is stated that he defeated and dethroned Vajrayudha, the king of Kanauj.

Therefore, Correct Answer - Option B

Lalitaditya Muktapida, a ruler of the Karkota dynasty in Kashmir, is credited with constructing the Martanda Sun Temple, one of the most magnificent architectural achievements of ancient India. Located near Anantnag in Kashmir, this temple was dedicated to Surya (the Sun God) and showcases a blend of Gandhara, Gupta, and Kashmiri architectural styles.The temple, built in the 8th century CE, reflects Lalitaditya's ambition and the cultural zenith of his reign.

Therefore, Correct Answer - Option A

Jayachandra Gahadavala, the ruler of the Gahadavala dynasty, had a longstanding rivalry with Prithviraja Chauhan, the ruler of the Chauhan dynasty. When Muhammad of Gori invaded India and fought against Prithviraja in the Second Battle of Tarain (1192 CE), Jayachandra did not ally himself with Prithviraja. His lack of support was due to their political and territorial conflicts, and this lack of unity among Indian rulers played a significant role in the success of Muhammad of Gori's campaigns.

Therefore, Correct Answer- Option B

Dynasties and Their Seats:

1. The Kalachuris → (II) Tripuri
   The Kalachuris ruled from Tripuri (modern Tewar in Madhya Pradesh). They were a major power in central India during Mahmud’s invasions.

2. The Chandelas → (I) Tejakabahukti
   The Chandelas ruled from Tejakabahukti (modern Khajuraho) in Bundelkhand. This region is famous for its temple architecture.

3. The Paramaras → (III) Malwa
   The Paramaras, under rulers like Bhoja, ruled from Malwa, with their capital at Dhar.

4. The Chalukyas → (IV) Gujarat
   The Chalukyas (Solankis) ruled from Anhilwara (modern Patan) in Gujarat.

5. The Chahamanas → (V) Sakambhari
   The Chahamanas (Chauhans) ruled from Sakambhari (modern Sambhar in Rajasthan) during this period.

Therefore, Correct Answer- Option A

The correct answer is D: All of the above.

• Govinda III: Known for his ambitious northern campaigns, he defeated the Gurjara-Pratiharas and the Palas, asserting Rashtrakuta dominance in north India.
• Dhruva: Preceded Govinda III and launched successful campaigns against northern rulers, including the Gurjara-Pratiharas.
• Krishna III: Later expanded Rashtrakuta influence beyond the Deccan, including towards northern territories.

Each of these kings played a significant role in extending Rashtrakuta influence into north India.

1. Chauhans (Eastern Rajasthan):
   The Chauhans ruled primarily in eastern Rajasthan, with centers of power at Ajmer and Sambhar. Their kingdom extended into parts of Delhi and southern Rajasthan as well.

2. Pratiharas (Southern Rajasthan):
   The Pratiharas, a powerful dynasty, initially established themselves in Mandor (southern Rajasthan) before expanding their influence into central and northern India, including Kannauj.

3. Tomaras (Delhi):
   The Tomaras ruled over Delhi before being overtaken by the Chauhans. They are credited with founding the city of Delhi as a significant urban center.

4. Solankis (Kathiawar in Gujarat):
   The Solankis ruled over Kathiawar in Gujarat and were prominent in western India, known for their cultural contributions and temple-building activities.

Therefore, Correct Answer- Option B

Vishnuvardhana, a prominent ruler of the Hoysala dynasty, is credited with establishing the Hoysala kingdom as a significant power in southern India. Although the dynasty's foundation is attributed to an earlier ruler, Nripa Kama, it was under Vishnuvardhana (r. 1108–1152 CE) that the Hoysalas emerged as a major force. He expanded the kingdom through military conquests and also initiated several architectural and cultural developments, including the construction of the famous Chennakesava Temple at Belur.

Therefore, Correct Answer- Option C