Historical Geography of Medieval India

Matching Medieval Dynasties and Capitals | UPSC History

Correct matches: Pratihara - Kannauj, Chola - Tanjore, Parmara - Dhara, and Solanki - Anhilwada.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class VII - Our Pasts II

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Updated:

Match list-I with list-II and select the correct answer:
List-IList-II
A. Pratihara1. Tanjore
B. Chola2. Anhilwada
C. Parmara3. Dhara
D. Solanki4. Kannauj

[Chhattisgarh PCS Prelims 2008]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Each major power in early medieval India had a signature fortified capital that served as the center for administration, culture, and architecture.

Authentic Source Evidence


  • Pratihara: Ruled from Kannauj (the imperial prize of the north).

  • Chola: Centered in Tanjore (Thanjavur) in the Kaveri delta.

  • Parmara: Based in Dhara (Dhar) in the Malwa region.

  • Solanki: Governed from Anhilwada (Patan) in Gujarat.
  • Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: Option D correctly matches the dynasties to their primary seats of power.

  • Logic 2: Kannauj was the center of the Tripartite struggle, while Tanjore saw the construction of the Great Living Chola Temples.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "Which of these capitals was the primary focus of the Tripartite Struggle?"

    Kannauj was the central prize fought for by the Pratiharas, Palas, and Rashtrakutas.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "The location of these capitals reflects the regional consolidation of power that characterized the post-Harsha era."

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