UPSC CSE/CDS Pattern Question

Regional Sovereignty in India

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Match List I with List II and select the correct answer: | List I (King) | List II (Region) | | :--- | :--- | | A. Shashanka | 1. Assam | | B. Kharavela | 2. Maharashtra | | C. Simuka | 3. Odisha | | D. Bhaskara Varman | 4. Bengal |

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept This question tests the geographic distribution of major Indian regional powers from the ancient to the early medieval periods.

Explanation
Shashanka: The first independent king of the Gauda kingdom in Bengal (7th century CE).
Kharavela: The famous king of the Mahameghavahana dynasty in Kalinga (Odisha).
Simuka: The founder of the Satavahana dynasty, centered in the Deccan (Maharashtra/Telangana).
Bhaskara Varman: The ruler of Kamarupa (Assam) and a contemporary of Harsha.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Option C provides the correct matches: A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1.
Logic 2: These kings represent the rise of regional identities that eventually solidified into the medieval political landscape.

Active Recall

Question

Which of these kings was a major rival of Emperor Harshavardhana?

Answer

Shashanka of Bengal was a fierce rival who famously cut down the Bodhi tree and was involved in the death of Harsha's brother.

Core Insight

The transition from ancient to medieval India is marked by the strong emergence of these distinct regional political entities.