[Solved] Samudragupta's Attributes in Prayag Prashasti | History

Which one among the following was NOT an attribute of Samudragupta described in Prayag Prashasti?

[UPSC CDS 2016 (I)]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

The Prayag Prashasti (Allahabad Pillar) is a panegyric composed by Harishena that portrays Samudragupta as the ideal 'universal monarch'—a warrior and a brilliant polymath.

Authentic Source Evidence

Harishena describes Samudragupta as having a sharp intellect, being a talented poet (Kaviraja), and an accomplished musician (noted in coins playing the Veena). He is not described as a sculptor in this official record.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: The inscription focuses on intellectual and performance-based arts like music and poetry which were suitable for a royal persona.

Logic 2: Sculpting was traditionally considered a manual craft for artisans (karigars) rather than an attribute of a genius-king in Gupta panegyrics.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What title did Harishena give to Samudragupta regarding his poetic skill?"

Kaviraja (King of Poets).

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The Prayag Prashasti serves to legitimize Samudragupta not just as a conqueror, but as the cultured center of a refined classical age."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Kaviraja 6 Harishena 4