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U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2015

Religion in the Gupta Empire

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The first Gupta ruler to assume the title of 'Parama Bhagawat' was-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept The shift in royal titles during the Gupta period reflected the evolution of the state religion toward the Puranic Bhakti tradition, particularly Vaishnavism.

Explanation Chandragupta II was the first Gupta ruler to explicitly adopt the title 'Parama Bhagawat', meaning 'the supreme devotee of Vishnu'. This signaled the central importance of Vaishnavism in the Gupta court.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: While his father Samudragupta was also a follower of Vishnu, Chandragupta II was the first to formalize this title on his coinage and inscriptions.
Logic 2: He also issued coins depicting himself as an avatar of Lord Krishna, further cementing his divine image.
Logic 3: The title was later used by his successors like Kumaragupta I and Skandagupta.

Active Recall

Question

What does the title 'Parama Bhagawat' mean?

Answer

It means 'The Supreme Devotee of Bhagavan' (typically referring to Lord Vishnu).

Core Insight

The use of 'Parama Bhagawat' highlights the transition of kingship into a more personalized and devotional relationship with specific Puranic deities.

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