The Pala Empire

Who founded the Pala Dynasty? | Gopala 750 CE

Gopala founded the Pala dynasty around 750 CE, bringing an end to the period of anarchy in Bengal and Bihar.

Primary Reference: Satish Chandra, History of Medieval India

Archived: 2015

Updated: 6 May 2026

Exam Year

2015

Evidence Source

UPSC Level

Who was the founder of Pala dynasty?

[U.P.P.C.S. Mains 2015]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

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.

Authentic Source Evidence

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.

Analytical Breakdown

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.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

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

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.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

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

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Matsyanyaya 2 Dharmapala 5

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