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U.P.P.C.S. Mains 2015

The Pala Empire

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Who was the founder of Pala dynasty?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept The rise of the Palas in the mid-8th century brought stability to Bengal after decades of chaos following the death of King Shashanka.

Explanation Historical texts record that Gopala (c. 750 CE) was 'elected' or chosen by regional chieftains to end the state of *Matsyanyaya
(law of the jungle) in the region.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Gopala was the first Buddhist king of Bengal and laid the foundation for an empire that would dominate North India during the Tripartite struggle.
Logic 2: While Dharmapala and Devapala expanded the empire to its zenith, it was Gopala who established the sovereign power of the Palas.

Active Recall

Question

What does the term 'Matsyanyaya' mean in Pala history?

Answer

It refers to a period of total anarchy where 'the big fish swallow the small fish' (might is right), which led to the people choosing Gopala as their king.

Core Insight

Gopala's rise is a rare historical instance of quasi-democratic consensus leading to the foundation of a major Indian dynasty.

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