UPSC CSE Pre 2017

Medieval Maritime Trade

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which one of the following was a very important seaport in the Kakatiya kingdom?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept The Kakatiya dynasty promoted maritime trade by establishing and protecting key coastal outlets to ensure economic prosperity through sea-bound commerce.

Explanation Motupalli, located in the Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh, served as the primary international port for the Kakatiya kingdom. The famous 'Abhaya Sasanam' inscription by King Ganapati Deva offered protection to foreign merchants here.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Motupalli thrived as a hub for foreign merchants; Marco Polo reportedly visited it during his travels.
Logic 2: While Machilipatnam and Kakinada became famous later (especially during the colonial era), Motupalli was the pre-eminent port for the medieval Kakatiyas.
Logic 3: Archaeological evidence, including a 15th-century inscription by Deva Raya II, confirms its long-standing maritime importance.

Active Recall

Question

What was the 'Abhaya Sasanam'?

Answer

It was a royal charter issued by Kakatiya king Ganapati Deva at Motupalli to ensure the safety of sea-faring merchants.

Core Insight

The state-sponsored protection of trade at Motupalli highlights the progressive economic policies of the Kakatiya rulers.