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Gupta Literature and Epigraphy

Harisena: Court Poet of Samudragupta and Author

Harisena was the court poet of Samudragupta and the author of the famous Prayag Prashasti. He did not write Devichandraguptam; that work is attributed to Vishakhadatta.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class XII - Themes in Indian History Part 1

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Read the following statements: 1. Harisena was the famous poet of Samudragupta's Court. 2. He composed the epic 'Devichandraguptam'. 3. He was also the author of 'Prayagprashasti'. Select the correct answer:

[Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2017]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Court poets in ancient India served as 'Prashastikaras' (eulogists) who recorded the genealogy and military feats of their patrons on durable mediums like stone pillars.

Authentic Source Evidence


  • Statement 1 is correct: Harisena was a 4th-century Sanskrit poet and high official (Mahadandanayaka) in Samudragupta’s court.

  • Statement 2 is incorrect: Devichandraguptam was written by Vishakhadatta (or Vishakhadeva), not Harisena.

  • Statement 3 is correct: Harisena is the author of the Prayag Prashasti (Allahabad Pillar Inscription), a masterpiece of Sanskrit poetry.

    • Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: The Prayag Prashasti provides the most detailed chronological list of Samudragupta's conquests.

  • Logic 2: Devichandraguptam focuses on Chandragupta II, the son of Samudragupta, and his conflict with the Sakas.

  • Logic 3: Harisena’s work is noted for its high-flown Kavya style, blending prose and verse.

    • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "In what language is the Prayag Prashasti written?"

    It is written in classical Sanskrit, using the Brahmi script.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "Harisena was more than a poet; his titles suggest he was a major state official, showing the integration of intellectual and administrative roles in the Gupta court."

    Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

    Samudragupta 5Prayag Prashasti 6Kaviraja 6
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