The Vakatakas, Maitrakas, and Mukharis were ancient Indian dynasties that played significant roles in shaping the socio-political landscape of the Indian subcontinent. The Vakatakas, known for their patronage of art and culture, ruled central India during the 3rd to 5th centuries. The Maitrakas, prominent in western India during the 5th to 8th centuries, were known for their maritime activities and trade connections. The Mukharis, ruling in the northern part of India during the 6th to 8th centuries, were pivotal in regional politics.
MCQs with Answers and Explanations:
1. Which Vakataka king is described as a “dvija” in the Ajanta Inscriptions?
- Vindhyashakti
- Pravarasena
- Rudrasena
- Prithvisena
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Correct Answer: Vindhyashakti
Vindhyashakti I is known as the founder of the Vakataka dynasty, and in the Ajanta Inscriptions, he is described as a “dvija,” which typically signifies a member of the twice-born castes, referring to his high social status. The inscriptions also commend his military accomplishments, underscoring his early successes in establishing the Vakataka kingdom.
2. Who is considered the second ruler of the Vakataka Dynasty?
- Vindhyashakti
- Pravarasena
- Rudrasena
- Prithvisena
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Correct Answer: Pravarasena
Pravarasena, Vindhyashakti’s son, succeeded his father as the second ruler of the Vakataka Dynasty. He is credited with significantly advancing the power and prestige of the Vakatakas, consolidating their rule during his reign. His leadership marked a turning point in the dynasty’s history.
3. Which Vakataka king extended the empire southwards into Vidarbha?
- Vindhyashakti
- Pravarasena
- Rudrasena
- Prithvisena
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Correct Answer: Pravarasena
During Pravarasena’s rule, the Vakataka Empire was expanded southwards into Vidarbha and the adjoining regions of the Deccan. This expansion increased the territorial reach and influence of the Vakatakas, making them a more formidable presence in the central and southern parts of India.
4. Which Vakataka king was the father of Gautamiputra, who married the daughter of a Naga king?
- Vindhyashakti
- Prithvisena
- Pravarasena I
- Rudrasena
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Correct Answer: Pravarasena I
A key aspect of Pravarasena’s reign was the strengthening of a political alliance between the Vakatakas and the Nagas, another influential dynasty in the Deccan. Pravarasena’s son, Gautamiputra, further solidified this alliance by marrying the daughter of the Naga king, Bhavanaga. This marital alliance played a crucial role in the political landscape of the time.
5. Which Vakataka king took the title of Samrat?
- Vindhyashakti
- Pravarasena
- Prithvisena
- Rudrasena
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Correct Answer: Pravarasena
Pravarasena is notably the only Vakataka king who assumed the prestigious title of Samrat, indicating his authority and influence. He was also involved in various sacrificial rituals, including the asvamedha and vajapeya, reflecting the importance of religious ceremonies during his rule.
6. Who is considered the founder of the Vakataka Nandivardhana branch?
- Pravarasena
- Prithvisena
- Vindhyashakti
- Rudrasena I
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Correct Answer: Rudrasena I
Rudrasena I, the son of Pravarasena, is considered the founder of the Vakataka Nandivardhana branch. He established his rule from Nandivardhana, located near modern-day Nagpur, and marked a significant chapter in the history of the Vakatakas.
7. Who was the son of Vakataka king Rudrasena I?
- Prithvisena I
- Rudrasena II
- Pravarasena II
- Narendrasena
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Correct Answer: Prithvisena I
Prithvisena I, the son of Rudrasena I, succeeded his father and took the reins of the Vakataka Nandivardhana branch. He earned a reputation as a righteous conqueror, drawing comparisons to the epic hero Yudhishthira, signifying his virtuous and principled rule.
8. Which Vakataka king, along with Chandragupta II, defeated the Shaka satraps of Malwa and Kathiawar?
- Prithvisena I
- Pravarasena II
- Rudrasena II
- Narendrasena
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Correct Answer: Prithvisena I
During his rule, Prithvisena I formed a strategic alliance with Chandragupta II, one of the most prominent Gupta emperors. Together, they joined forces to defeat the Shaka satraps in the regions of Malwa and Kathiawar, showcasing the collaboration between two powerful dynasties.
9. Who was the son of Prithvisena I, the Vakataka king?
- Prithvisena II
- Rudrasena II
- Rudrasena I
- Pravarasena II
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Correct Answer: Rudrasena II
The lineage of Vakataka rulers continued with Rudrasena II, the son of Prithvisena I. However, his reign was tragically short, lasting for just five years. His untimely death left behind three minor sons: Divakarasena, Damodarasena, and Pravarasena.
10. Who ruled the Vakataka Nandivardhana branch after the death of Rudrasena II?
- Prabhavatigupta
- Pravarasena II
- Damodarasena
- Divakarasena
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Correct Answer: Divakarasena
After the passing of Rudrasena II, his wife Prabhavatigupta ruled as the regent until 410 CE, effectively governing the Vakataka Nandivardhana branch. Later, Divakarasena, the son of Rudrasena II, ascended to the throne as the ruler of this branch.
11. After the death of Pravarasena, in which ruling branches did the Vakataka kingdom divide? 1. Nandivardhana 2. Vatsagulma Choose the right option:
- Only 1
- Only 2
- Both 1 and 2
- None
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Correct Answer: Both 1 and 2
Following the death of Pravarasena, the Vakataka kingdom divided into two ruling branches. Rudrasena I led the Nandivardhana branch, while Sarvasena was at the helm of the Vatsagulma branch. This division had implications for the future of the Vakataka dynasty, with each branch having its own line of rulers.
12. Who is considered the founder of the Vakataka Nandivardhana branch?
- Pravarasena
- Prithvisena
- Vindhyashakti
- Rudrasena I
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Correct Answer: Rudrasena I
Rudrasena I, the son of Pravarasena, is considered the founder of the Vakataka Nandivardhana branch. He established his rule from Nandivardhana, located near modern-day Nagpur, and marked a significant chapter in the history of the Vakatakas.
13. Who was the son of Prithvisena I, the Vakataka king?
- Prithvisena II
- Rudrasena II
- Rudrasena I
- Pravarasena II
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Correct Answer: Rudrasena II
The lineage of Vakataka rulers continued with Rudrasena II, the son of Prithvisena I. However, his reign was tragically short, lasting for just five years. His untimely death left behind three minor sons: Divakarasena, Damodarasena, and Pravarasena.
14. Which Vakataka king has the largest number of inscriptions?
- Prabhavatigupta
- Pravarasena II
- Divakarasena
- Damodarasena
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Correct Answer: Pravarasena II
Pravarasena II, the descendant of Rudrasena II, marked a significant period in the history of the Vakataka dynasty. His rule is renowned for the abundance of copper-plate grants that were issued during this time, documenting various aspects of the Vakataka administration and society.
15. Which Vakataka king composed a Prakrit kavya glorifying Rama?
- Prithvisena I
- Narendrasena
- Rudrasena II
- Pravarasena II
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Correct Answer: Pravarasena II
Pravarasena II, despite his devotion to Shiva, composed a Prakrit kavya called Setubandha/Ravanavaha, which glorified the epic story of Lord Rama’s journey to Lanka and his triumph over Ravana. This literary work adds depth to our understanding of the cultural and literary achievements of the Vakataka era.
16. Which Vakataka king entered into a matrimonial alliance with the contemporary Kadambas?
- Prithvisena I
- Rudrasena II
- Narendrasena
- Pravarasena II
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Correct Answer: Pravarasena II
Pravarasena II also played a strategic role in diplomacy by entering into a matrimonial alliance with the contemporary Kadambas. His son, Narendrasena, married Ajihata Bhattarika, the daughter of Kakutsavarman from the Kadamba dynasty, reinforcing the dynasty’s political ties and influence.
17. After Pravarasena II, which king ascended the throne?
- Narendrasena
- Prithvisena I
- Rudrasena II
- Pravarasena II
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Correct Answer: Narendrasena
Following the reign of Pravarasena II, a succession struggle ensued, ultimately leading to the emergence of Narendrasena as the ruler. Narendrasena’s rule spanned from 440 CE to 460 CE, marking another chapter in the dynamic history of the Vakataka dynasty.
18. Which king faced the invasion of the Nala king Bhavadottavarman?
- Narendrasena
- Prithvisena I
- Rudrasena II
- Pravarasena II
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Correct Answer: Narendrasena
Narendrasena, upon ascending the throne, had to confront the invasion of Bhavadottavarman, the king of the Nala dynasty. While Narendrasena made some conquests during his reign, he faced resilient opposition from the Nalas. This conflict demonstrates the complex geopolitical landscape of the time.
19. Who is considered the last known ruler of the Nandivardhana branch of the Vakataka dynasty?
- Prithvisena I
- Rudrasena II
- Pravarasena II
- Prithivisena II
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Correct Answer: Prithivisena II
Prithvisena II is regarded as the final known ruler of the Nandivardhana branch of the Vakataka dynasty. His reign is significant for his efforts in revitalizing the fortunes of the Vakatakas. However, he had to contend with the invasion of Harisena, ruler of the Vatsagulma branch.
20. Which king fought with the Traikutaka king, Dahrasena of southern Gujarat?
- Narendrasena
- Rudrasena II
- Prithvisena II
- Prithvisena I
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Correct Answer: Prithvisena II
During Prithvisena II’s rule, he encountered not only the invasion of Harisena but also had to defend his territory against Bhavadottavarman of the Nala dynasty, adding another layer of military challenges. Furthermore, he engaged in conflicts with the Traikutaka king Dahrasena, ruler of southern Gujarat, indicating the multifaceted nature of the Vakataka dynasty’s military engagements.
21. Who was the founder of the Vatsagulma line of the Vakatakas?
- Rudrasena I
- Pravarasena II
- Sarvasena
- Vindhyashakti II
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Correct Answer: Sarvasena
Sarvasena, a pivotal figure in the Vakataka dynasty, was the founder of the Vatsagulma line. This line represented the second major Vakataka branch and had its capital in Vatsagulma, which corresponds to modern-day Washim in the Akola district of Maharashtra.
22. What was the capital of the Vatsagulma branch of the Vakatakas?
- Padmapura
- Vatsagulma
- Pravarapura
- None of the above
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Correct Answer: Vatsagulma
The Vatsagulma branch or line of the Vakatakas had its capital at Vatsagulma, which is modern-day Washim in the Akola district of Maharashtra.
23. Which Vakataka ruler adopted the title “dharma-maharaja”?
- Sarvasena
- Vindhyashakti II
- Harisena
- Prithvisena II
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Correct Answer: Sarvasena
Sarvasena, belonging to the Vatsagulma branch/line of the Vakatakas, ruled from approximately 330 to 355 CE and adopted the title “dharma-maharaja.” He was a renowned Prakrit poet.
24. Whose work was Harivijaya, a lost work praised by later writers?
- Narendrasena
- Sarvasena
- Vindhyashakti II
- Harisena
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Correct Answer: Sarvasena
Sarvasena, who reigned around 330 to 355 CE, adopted the title of “dharma-maharaja” and was noted not only for his political rule but also for his prowess as a Prakrit poet. His lost work, the Harivijaya, received praise from later writers, and some of his verses were incorporated into the Gathasattasai, highlighting his literary contribution.
25. Who was the son and successor of Vindhyashakti II/Vindhyasena, the Vakataka ruler?
- Sarvasena
- Harisena
- Devasena
- Pravarasena II
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Correct Answer: Pravarasena II
Pravarasena II, the successor of Vindhyashakti II, led the Vakataka dynasty for a period of fifteen years. Following his rule, Devasena took the throne and became known for his indulgent lifestyle.
26. Who succeeded the ruler Devasena in the Vakataka dynasty?
- Harisena
- Vindhyashakti II
- Pravarasena II
- None of the above
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Correct Answer: Harisena
Devasena, known for his pleasure-seeking lifestyle, was succeeded by Harisena, regarded as the ablest and most influential ruler of the Vatsagulma branch of the Vakatakas. Harisena’s conquests expanded the Vakataka influence over regions such as Kuntala, Avanti, Kalinga, Kosala, Konkan, and Andhra.
27. Which poet described Harisena as “powerful, truthful and bountiful, glorious, lofty, and a penetrating critic of ethical and economic compendia”?
- Kalidasa
- Dandin
- Amarasimha
- Sarvasena
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Correct Answer: Dandin
Dandin, a renowned poet of the 6th century CE, described Harisena, the Vakataka ruler, as “powerful, truthful, and bountiful,” highlighting his glory, ethical judgment, and understanding of economic matters. Dandin’s verses celebrating Harisena were incorporated into the Gathasattasai.
28. Who succeeded the king Sarvavarmana?
- Avanti Varmana
- Sarvavarmana
- Advaita Varmana
- Grahavarmana
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Correct Answer: Avanti Varmana
Avanti Varmana, son of Sarvavarmana, ruled the Maukhari dynasty from 585 CE to 600 CE and bore the title of Maharajadhiraja. He is recognized for expanding the kingdom and transferring the capital to Kannauj.
29. Who succeeded Avantivarmana, the ruler of the Maukharis?
- Ishanavarmana
- Sarvavarmana
- Advaita Varmana
- Grahavarmana
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Correct Answer: Grahavarmana
Grahavarmana, who followed Avanti Varmana and ruled the Maukhari dynasty around 600 CE, was married to Rajyashri, the daughter of Prabhakar Vardhana from the Pushyabhuti family of Thanesara. However, Grahavarmana is considered the last king of the Maukhari dynasty, as the dynasty gradually faded into obscurity.
30. Who is considered the last ruler of the Maukharis?
- Ishanavarmana
- Grahavarmana
- Sarvavarmana
- Advaita Varmana
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Correct Answer: Grahavarmana
Grahavarmana is considered the last king of the Maukhari dynasty. He was killed by Deva Gupta, the king of the later Gupta lineage. Gradually, the Maukhari family disappeared into obscurity.
31. Which of the following were the tributary chiefs of the Guptas?
- Vakatakas
- Maukharies
- Maitrakas
- Pushyabhutis
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Correct Answer: Maitrakas
The Maitrakas were tributary chiefs under the Guptas, but they eventually established their independent kingdom in western India, ruling over the Saurashtra region in Gujarat. Their rule persisted until the middle of the 8th century.
32. What was the capital of the Maitrakas?
- Vallabhi
- Avanti
- Patliputra
- Ujjain
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Correct Answer: Vallabhi
Vallabhi served as the capital of the Maitrakas, and it was renowned as a center of learning and a thriving port town along the Arabian Sea, known for its robust trade and commerce.
33. Which rulers used the title of “Samanta”?
- Guptas
- Maitrakas
- Maukharies
- Vakatakas
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Correct Answer: Maukharies
Maukharies, while subordinate rulers under the Guptas, used the title of “Samanta.” The term “Maukhari” is an ancient one, mentioned in Panini’s Ashtadhyayi, indicating the dynasty’s antiquity.
34. Which city gradually replaced Pataliputra as the political center of northern India during the rule of the Maukharies?
- Ujjain
- Mathura
- Kannauj
- Nalanda
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Correct Answer: Kannauj
The Maukhari dynasty, following the decline of the Gupta empire, wielded control over extensive areas in Northern India. Over time, Kannauj in western Uttar Pradesh replaced Pataliputra as the central political hub of northern India.
35. Which king married Harsha Vardhana’s sister Rajyashri?
- Ishanavarmana
- Grahavarmana
- Sarvavarmana
- Avanti Varmana
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Correct Answer: Grahavarmana
Grahavarmana, who ruled the Maukharies around 600 CE, was the son of Avanti Varmana. He was married to Rajyashri, the sister of Harsha Vardhana. However, his reign was marked by attacks and eventual demise, as he was killed by Shashanka, the ruler of Bengal, and Devagupta, the ruler of Malwa.
36. Who is considered the real founder of Maukhari supremacy?
- Sarvavarmana
- Ishanavarmana
- Grahavarmana
- Avanti Varmana
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Ishanavarmana
Ishanavarmana, son of Advaita Varmana, is associated with the founding of the Maukhari rule in India. He assumed the title of “Maharajadhiraja” and reigned over the Ganges River valley around the mid-6th century.
37. Which of the following Kings assumed the title ‘Maharajadhiraja’ according to the Asirgarh copper plate inscription?
- Sarvavarmana
- Ishanavarmana
- Grahavarmana
- Avanti Varmana
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Correct Answer: Ishanavarmana
According to the Asirgarh copper plate inscription, Ishanavarmana, who is considered the founder of Maukhari rule in India, assumed the title of ‘Maharajadhiraja’. He ruled in the Ganges River valley around the mid-6th century.
38. Who was the successor of Ishanavarmana?
- Sarvavarmana
- Grahavarmana
- Avanti Varmana
- Advaita Varmana
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Correct Answer: Sarvavarmana
Sarvavarmana, Ishanavarmana’s son, succeeded him and governed the Maukharies around 560 CE. He effectively maintained control over Magadha and kept the later Guptas in check, underscoring his strategic role in the dynasty.
39. The Asirgadh Inscription in the Nimar district of Madhya Pradesh describes the victory of which of the following kings?
- Sarvavarmana
- Advaita Varmana
- Grahavarmana
- Avanti Varmana
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Sarvavarmana
The Asirgadh Inscription in Nimar district, Madhya Pradesh, describes the victory of Sarvavarmana. Sarvavarmana maintained his hold on Magadha and kept the later Guptas under control.
Vakatakas, Maitrakas and Mukharis Notes for UPSC Exam
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