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U.P.P.C.S. Mains 2007

Social Status in the Deccan

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which of the following dynasties frequently assigned to the ladies high ranking positions in administration?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept While medieval societies were largely patriarchal, certain South Indian dynasties allowed royal women to exercise significant political and administrative power, particularly in the absence of the King.

Explanation Chalukyan and Hoysala records (often grouped in broader Deccan studies) show women managing towns and provinces. For instance, contemporary records describe Queen Umadevi administering Halebidu during the military campaigns of Veera Ballala II.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: The Chalukya administration stood out for its inclusivity toward royal women in governance, a practice less formalized in the northern Pala or Sena dynasties.
Logic 2: These women often presided over local courts, managed land grants, and oversaw temple administration.

Active Recall

Question

Which other dynasty of the Deccan showed similar trends in female administration?

Answer

The Hoysalas, who emerged from the Chalukyan sphere, also saw queens like Shantala Devi participating in state affairs and temple patronage.

Core Insight

The inclusion of royal women in administration was a pragmatic measure to ensure continuity of rule during prolonged military absences of the male monarchs.

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