Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
Consider the following statements: 1. The last Mauryan ruler, Brihadratha was assassinated by his commander-in-chief, Pushyamitra Sunga. 2. The last Sunga king, Devabhuti, was assassinated by his Brahmana minister Vasudeva Kanva who usurped the throne. 3. The last ruler of the Kanva dynasty was deposed by the Andhras. Which of these statements is/are correct?
Solution & Analysis
Answer: D
Concept
The political fragmentation of North India after the Mauryan collapse led to a series of short-lived dynasties (Sunga, Kanva) before regional powers rose.Explanation
According to the Puranas and Harshacharita, Brihadratha was killed during a military parade. Later, the Kanva dynasty was indeed ended by the Satavahanas (referred to as Andhras).Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Statement 1 is correct; Pushyamitra Sunga founded the Sunga dynasty in 185 BCE after killing Brihadratha.
Logic 2: Statement 2 is correct; Around 73 BCE, Vasudeva Kanva killed the last Sunga ruler, Devabhuti.
Logic 3: Statement 3 is correct; The Kanvas were displaced by the Satavahanas (Andhras) around 28 BCE.