The Pratihara Empire

Who founded Gurjara-Pratihara Dynasty? | Nagabhatta I

Nagabhata I founded the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty around 730 CE, famously defending Northern India against early Arab incursions.

Primary Reference: Standard Educational Reference

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The Gurjar-Pratiharas dynasty was founded by:

[U.P.P.C.S. Pre 2003]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


The Gurjara-Pratiharas emerged in the 8th century as a formidable power in Western and Northern India, serving as the first line of defense against Islamic expansion from the west.

Authentic Source Evidence


Historical records and the Gwalior inscription identify Nagabhata I (c. 730–760) as the founder. He rose to fame after repelling the Arab armies led by Junayd in the Avanti region.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: Nagabhata I established the dynasty's base at Ujjain.

  • Logic 2: Vatsraj (B) and Mihir Bhoja (D) were later powerful rulers who expanded the empire to its peak, but they were not the founders.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "What was the significance of Nagabhata I's victory over the Arabs?"

    It prevented the Umayyad Caliphate from expanding beyond Sindh into the heartland of India for centuries.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "The foundation of this dynasty marked the beginning of Rajput dominance in the early medieval political landscape."

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