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R.A.S./R.T.S. Prelims 2018

The Gurjara-Pratihara Empire

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which of the following rulers does not belong to Gurjara-Pratihar dynasty?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept Correctly identifying the king-lists of early medieval dynasties is essential for understanding the Tripartite struggle and the transition to the Rajput era.

Explanation Nagabhatta-II, Mahendrapal-I, and Devapal-I are all well-documented rulers of the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty of Kannauj. Bharatrabhatta-I (Option D) does not belong to this imperial line; he is associated with the Guhila dynasty of Mewar.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Nagabhatta II (A) rebuilt the empire; Mahendrapal I (B) was a patron of the poet Rajashekhara; and Devapal I (C) ruled during the late 10th century.
Logic 2: Bharatrabhatta-I was a local ruler in the Rajasthan region belonging to a different Rajput clan, illustrating the contemporary diversity of Rajput principalities.

Active Recall

Question

Which poet was associated with the Pratihara court?

Answer

The famous poet and critic Rajashekhara was the guru and court poet of Mahendrapal I and his son Mahipala.

Core Insight

The Pratiharas acted as the 'door-keepers' of India, successfully halting Arab expansion for nearly three centuries.

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