[Solved] Matching Ancient Rulers and Court Poets | Concept & Explanation

Which one of the following pairs is not correctly matched?

[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1997]

⚡ Generate AI Quick Summary

Correct Option: C

Harisena was the court poet of Samudragupta. Emperor Harsha's court was adorned by Banabhatta.

A. Ravi Kirti - Pulakeshin II

B. Bhavabhuti - Yasovarman of Kannauj

C. Harisena - Harsha

D. Dandi - Narasimha Varman

Analysis & Evidence

Concept

Court poets (Rajakavi) were instrumental in creating 'Prashastis' (eulogies) that legitimized the ruler's power and documented their conquests.

Authentic Source Evidence

Harisena was the court poet and minister of the Gupta Emperor Samudragupta. Emperor Harsha's court poet was Banabhatta.

Analytical Breakdown

Option C is Incorrect: Harisena is famous for the Prayag Prashasti (Allahabad Pillar Inscription), not for the Harsha era.

Correct Pairs: Ravi Kirti wrote the Aihole inscription for Pulakeshin II. Bhavabhuti served Yasovarman. Dandi was a scholar in the Pallava court.

Historical Logic Quest

"Who was Harsha's actual court poet?"

Banabhatta, who wrote the 'Harshacharita'.

The Topper's Edge

"The confusion between Harisena and Harsha's time highlights the similarity in courtly 'Prashasti' traditions across the Gupta and post-Gupta periods."

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