UPPCS (Pre) 2022

Ancient Indian Epigraphy

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which one of the following pairs is not correctly matched?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept Epigraphy (the study of inscriptions) provides precise chronological and genealogical data for ancient Indian dynasties, but requires accurate matching of specific artifacts to specific rulers.

Explanation The Gaya Copper Plate inscription is associated with Samudragupta, not Sarvaverman. It records a village grant to a Brahmin in the 9th year of Samudragupta's reign.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1 (Mismatch): Sarvaverman was a Maukhari ruler, whereas the Gaya Copper Plate belongs to the Imperial Gupta king Samudragupta.
Logic 2 (Correct Pair): Ishwarverman is correctly linked to the Jaunpur Stone Inscription, which mentions his victory over the Hunas.
Logic 3 (Correct Pair): Ishanverman is correctly linked to the Harha Stone Inscription, detailing his conquests in Magadha and Malwa.
Logic 4 (Correct Pair): Jivit Gupta II is correctly linked to the Deva Barnark Inscription regarding land grants.

Active Recall

Question

What does the Gaya Copper Plate record?

Answer

It records the grant of two villages by Samudragupta to a Brahmin named Jayabhatta.

Core Insight

Accurate epigraphic matching is vital for distinguishing between the overlapping regional powers like the Guptas and the Maukharis.