Rashtrakutas MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Rashtrakutas - Download Free PDF

The correct answer is Rashtrakuta.

Key Points

• The Ellora Caves were primarily patronized and constructed under the Rashtrakuta dynasty, particularly during the 8th to 10th centuries CE.
• The most famous structure in the Ellora Caves is the Kailasa Temple (Cave 16), an architectural marvel carved entirely out of a single rock.
• The Rashtrakutas were known for their artistic and architectural contributions, and Ellora is a testament to their grandeur and engineering skills.
• The Ellora complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and comprises 34 rock-cut caves, including Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain monuments.
• Ellora symbolized religious harmony and cultural diversity, as its monuments represent the coexistence of Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism.

Additional Information

• Ellora Caves Overview:
  • Located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, India, Ellora is one of the largest rock-cut monastery-temple complexes in the world.
  • It features 12 Buddhist caves (caves 1–12), 17 Hindu caves (caves 13–29), and 5 Jain caves (caves 30–34).
  • The caves were excavated between the 6th and 10th centuries CE.
  • They showcase intricate sculptures, paintings, and architectural brilliance.
• Kailasa Temple (Cave 16):
  • It is the largest monolithic structure in the world, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  • The temple was commissioned by the Rashtrakuta king Krishna I in the 8th century CE.
  • The temple mimics Mount Kailash, the mythical abode of Lord Shiva.
• Rashtrakuta Dynasty:
  • The Rashtrakutas ruled large parts of India between the 6th and 10th centuries CE.
  • They were known for their patronage of art, culture, and architecture.
  • Other notable contributions include the Kannada classic Kavirajamarga and the Virupaksha Temple at Pattadakal.
• UNESCO World Heritage Status:
  • The Ellora Caves were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
  • They are recognized for their outstanding universal value and architectural significance.

The correct answer is Kirtivarman II.

Key Points

• Kirtivarman II was the last ruler of the Chalukya dynasty who reigned in the Deccan region.
• He was defeated by Dantidurga, the founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty, around the mid-8th century.
• The defeat of Kirtivarman II marked the end of the Chalukya rule and the rise of the Rashtrakutas in the Deccan.
• Dantidurga's victory over Kirtivarman II is well-documented in various inscriptions and historical records.

Additional Information

• Chalukya Dynasty
  • The Chalukyas were an Indian royal dynasty that ruled large parts of southern and central India between the 6th and the 12th centuries.
  • Their rule is divided into three distinct but related dynasties: the Badami Chalukyas, the Eastern Chalukyas, and the Western Chalukyas.
  • They are known for their contribution to art, architecture, and cultural developments in South India.
• Rashtrakuta Dynasty
  • The Rashtrakutas were a prominent dynasty that ruled over large parts of the Indian subcontinent between the 6th and 10th centuries.
  • They are well-known for their patronage of art and architecture, most notably the rock-cut temples of Ellora.
  • Under their reign, the Deccan region witnessed significant economic, cultural, and political advancements.
• Dantidurga
  • Dantidurga was the founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty.
  • He is credited with overthrowing the Chalukyan rule and establishing the Rashtrakuta Empire in the Deccan.
  • His victory over Kirtivarman II is seen as a significant turning point in the history of South India.
• Historical Records
  • Inscriptions and texts from the period provide valuable insights into the political and cultural history of the Deccan region during the time of the Chalukyas and Rashtrakutas.
  • These records are crucial for understanding the transitions of power and the impact of these dynasties on Indian history.

The correct answer is Pratihara, Rashtrakuta, and Pala.

Key Points

• The Tripartite Struggle was a prolonged conflict between the Pratihara, Rashtrakuta, and Pala dynasties.
• This struggle took place during the 8th to 10th centuries over the control of the city of Kannauj, which was a symbol of prestige and power.
• Kannauj was strategically significant as it was located in the fertile Ganges plain and was a prominent center of commerce and culture.
• The struggle weakened all three dynasties over time, paving the way for other powers to rise in the Indian subcontinent.

Additional Information

• Pratihara Dynasty
  • The Pratiharas, also known as the Gurjara-Pratiharas, were a powerful dynasty in northern India.
  • They played a crucial role in resisting Arab invasions and preserving the cultural heritage of India.
  • Their rule is marked by significant developments in art, architecture, and the spread of Hinduism.
• Rashtrakuta Dynasty
  • The Rashtrakutas were a prominent dynasty in southern and central India.
  • They were known for their military prowess and their patronage of arts and literature.
  • The famous rock-cut temples of Ellora, including the Kailasa temple, were built during their reign.
• Pala Dynasty
  • The Palas were a major dynasty in eastern India, particularly in the regions of Bengal and Bihar.
  • They were great patrons of Buddhism and played a significant role in the spread of the religion to Tibet and Southeast Asia.
  • The Nalanda University flourished under their patronage, becoming a renowned center of learning.

The correct answer is Kannauj.

Key Points

• The tripartite struggle, also known as the Kannauj Triangle Wars, occurred during the 8th to 10th centuries CE.
• The three dynasties involved were the Gurjara-Pratihara, the Rashtrakuta, and the Pala dynasties.
• Kannauj was a significant and strategically important city due to its location and its control over the fertile Ganges-Yamuna Doab region.
• The control over Kannauj was seen as a symbol of sovereignty and paramount power in northern India.
• This prolonged conflict weakened the three dynasties, eventually leading to the rise of other regional powers.

Additional Information

• Gurjara-Pratihara Dynasty
  • The Gurjara-Pratiharas were known for their strong military prowess and played a key role in resisting Arab invasions in western India.
  • They ruled over a large part of northern India, with their capital initially at Bhinmal and later at Kannauj.
• Rashtrakuta Dynasty
  • The Rashtrakutas were a powerful dynasty in the Deccan region, known for their patronage of art and architecture.
  • They ruled from their capital at Manyakheta and were known for their extensive campaigns in northern India.
• Pala Dynasty
  • The Palas ruled over the Bengal and Bihar regions and were renowned for their support of Buddhism and establishment of universities like Nalanda and Vikramashila.
  • Their capital was initially at Pataliputra and later at Vikrampura.
• Significance of Kannauj
  • Kannauj was historically a major center for trade, culture, and politics in northern India.
  • Its control was often contested due to its strategic location and prosperity.

The correct answer is Krishna I.

Key Points

• Rashtrakuta ruler Dantidurga was succeeded by his uncle Krishna I after he died without a male heir.
• Krishna I is credited with consolidating the Rashtrakuta empire and expanding its territories.
• He was a great patron of art and architecture, most notably associated with the construction of the Kailasa Temple at Ellora.
• Krishna I ruled during the late 8th century CE and played a key role in strengthening the Rashtrakuta dynasty.
• He defeated the Ganga dynasty and other rivals, ensuring Rashtrakuta supremacy in peninsular India.

Additional Information

• Rashtrakuta Dynasty:
  • The Rashtrakutas were a prominent dynasty in southern and central India between the 6th and 10th centuries CE.
  • Their empire extended from the Vindhyas in the north to Kanyakumari in the south.
  • They are well-known for their contributions to art, literature, and architecture.
• Kailasa Temple:
  • Constructed under the patronage of Krishna I, the Kailasa Temple is a rock-cut monolithic structure at Ellora.
  • The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered an architectural marvel of ancient India.
  • It showcases intricate carvings and sculptures that depict various Hindu mythological themes.
• Dantidurga:
  • Also known as Dantivarman, he was the founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty.
  • He overthrew the Chalukyas of Badami to establish Rashtrakuta dominance in the Deccan region.
  • His reign marked the beginning of a powerful lineage that influenced Indian history.
• Ellora Caves:
  • A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Ellora Caves are located in Maharashtra, India.
  • The site consists of 34 rock-cut monasteries and temples belonging to Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions.
  • The Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) is the most famous structure within this complex.

The correct answer is Dantidurga.

Key Points

• Rashtrakuta leader, Dantidurga deposed the Chalukyas after deciding that he wanted to be more than a Samanta.
• After engaging in a ceremony known as the 'hiranya-garbha', he proclaimed himself as the king of the Deccan region of the Chalukyas and formed the Rashtrakuta Empire.
• According to Vedic philosophy, the origin of the universe or the manifested cosmos is known as hiranya-garbha, which means "golden womb" or "universal womb".
• With the assistance of Brahmanas, Dantidurga completed the hiranya-garbha ceremony, signifying his rebirth as a Kshatriya.

Additional Information

• Around 780 CE, Rashtrakuta ruler named, Dhruva Dharavarsha seized power over the realm.
• Dhruva Dharavarsha made the kingdom so large that it included the entire area between the Kaveri River and Central India.
• Dantidurga's uncle, Krishna I overthrew Kirtivarman II, the last Badami Chalukya king, in 757 CE to assume control of the expanding Rashtrakuta Empire.

The correct answer is Rashtrakutas.

Key Points

• The Rashtrakuta Dynasty ruled parts of South India from the 8th to the 10th century CE.
• The Rashtrakutas were originally known to be the feudatories of the Western Chalukyas of Vatapi.
• They ruled from Manyakheta in Karnataka.
• Krishna III was the last greatest in the Rashtrakuta dynasty.
• Krishna III defeated Parantaka Chola in the battle of Takkolam.
• Dantidurg was the founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty, he defeated Chalukyas of Badam.

Additional Information

• Chera
  • The Cheras controlled the central and northern parts of Kerala and the Kongu region of Tamil Nadu
  • Vanji was the capital of the Chera Kingdom.
  • The Cheras, Cholas and Pandyas were the most powerful three kingdoms to have ruled during the Sangam Age,
• Pala
  • The Pala empire was founded by Gopala
  • The Palas were staunch supporters of Mahayana Buddhism.
  • The Pala period is also known as a ‘Golden Era’ in Bengali history.
• Gurjara-Pratihara
  • The kingdom was founded by Nagabhatta I.
  • Bhoja was the Pratihara dynasty's greatest emperor and the actual founder of the empire.
  • The Pratiharas who ruled over Kannauj.

The correct answer is Dantidurga.

Key Points

• Rashtrakuta leader, Dantidurga deposed the Chalukyas after deciding that he wanted to be more than a Samanta.
• After engaging in a ceremony known as the 'hiranya-garbha', he proclaimed himself as the king of the Deccan region of the Chalukyas and formed the Rashtrakuta Empire.
• According to Vedic philosophy, the origin of the universe or the manifested cosmos is known as hiranya-garbha, which means "golden womb" or "universal womb".
• With the assistance of Brahmanas, Dantidurga completed the hiranya-garbha ceremony, signifying his rebirth as a Kshatriya.

Additional Information

• Around 780 CE, Rashtrakuta ruler named, Dhruva Dharavarsha seized power over the realm.
• Dhruva Dharavarsha made the kingdom so large that it included the entire area between the Kaveri River and Central India.
• Dantidurga's uncle, Krishna I overthrew Kirtivarman II, the last Badami Chalukya king, in 757 CE to assume control of the expanding Rashtrakuta Empire.

The correct answer is Rashtrakutas.

Key Points

• The Rashtrakuta Dynasty ruled parts of South India from the 8th to the 10th century CE.
• The Rashtrakutas were originally known to be the feudatories of the Western Chalukyas of Vatapi.
• They ruled from Manyakheta in Karnataka.
• Krishna III was the last greatest in the Rashtrakuta dynasty.
• Krishna III defeated Parantaka Chola in the battle of Takkolam.
• Dantidurg was the founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty, he defeated Chalukyas of Badam.

Additional Information

• Chera
  • The Cheras controlled the central and northern parts of Kerala and the Kongu region of Tamil Nadu
  • Vanji was the capital of the Chera Kingdom.
  • The Cheras, Cholas and Pandyas were the most powerful three kingdoms to have ruled during the Sangam Age,
• Pala
  • The Pala empire was founded by Gopala
  • The Palas were staunch supporters of Mahayana Buddhism.
  • The Pala period is also known as a ‘Golden Era’ in Bengali history.
• Gurjara-Pratihara
  • The kingdom was founded by Nagabhatta I.
  • Bhoja was the Pratihara dynasty's greatest emperor and the actual founder of the empire.
  • The Pratiharas who ruled over Kannauj.

The correct answer is Pratihara, Rashtrakuta, and Pala.

Key Points

• The Tripartite Struggle was a prolonged conflict between the Pratihara, Rashtrakuta, and Pala dynasties.
• This struggle took place during the 8th to 10th centuries over the control of the city of Kannauj, which was a symbol of prestige and power.
• Kannauj was strategically significant as it was located in the fertile Ganges plain and was a prominent center of commerce and culture.
• The struggle weakened all three dynasties over time, paving the way for other powers to rise in the Indian subcontinent.

Additional Information

• Pratihara Dynasty
  • The Pratiharas, also known as the Gurjara-Pratiharas, were a powerful dynasty in northern India.
  • They played a crucial role in resisting Arab invasions and preserving the cultural heritage of India.
  • Their rule is marked by significant developments in art, architecture, and the spread of Hinduism.
• Rashtrakuta Dynasty
  • The Rashtrakutas were a prominent dynasty in southern and central India.
  • They were known for their military prowess and their patronage of arts and literature.
  • The famous rock-cut temples of Ellora, including the Kailasa temple, were built during their reign.
• Pala Dynasty
  • The Palas were a major dynasty in eastern India, particularly in the regions of Bengal and Bihar.
  • They were great patrons of Buddhism and played a significant role in the spread of the religion to Tibet and Southeast Asia.
  • The Nalanda University flourished under their patronage, becoming a renowned center of learning.

The correct answer is Kirtivarman II.

Key Points

• Kirtivarman II was the last ruler of the Chalukya dynasty who reigned in the Deccan region.
• He was defeated by Dantidurga, the founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty, around the mid-8th century.
• The defeat of Kirtivarman II marked the end of the Chalukya rule and the rise of the Rashtrakutas in the Deccan.
• Dantidurga's victory over Kirtivarman II is well-documented in various inscriptions and historical records.

Additional Information

• Chalukya Dynasty
  • The Chalukyas were an Indian royal dynasty that ruled large parts of southern and central India between the 6th and the 12th centuries.
  • Their rule is divided into three distinct but related dynasties: the Badami Chalukyas, the Eastern Chalukyas, and the Western Chalukyas.
  • They are known for their contribution to art, architecture, and cultural developments in South India.
• Rashtrakuta Dynasty
  • The Rashtrakutas were a prominent dynasty that ruled over large parts of the Indian subcontinent between the 6th and 10th centuries.
  • They are well-known for their patronage of art and architecture, most notably the rock-cut temples of Ellora.
  • Under their reign, the Deccan region witnessed significant economic, cultural, and political advancements.
• Dantidurga
  • Dantidurga was the founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty.
  • He is credited with overthrowing the Chalukyan rule and establishing the Rashtrakuta Empire in the Deccan.
  • His victory over Kirtivarman II is seen as a significant turning point in the history of South India.
• Historical Records
  • Inscriptions and texts from the period provide valuable insights into the political and cultural history of the Deccan region during the time of the Chalukyas and Rashtrakutas.
  • These records are crucial for understanding the transitions of power and the impact of these dynasties on Indian history.

The correct answer is Kannauj.

Key Points

• The tripartite struggle, also known as the Kannauj Triangle Wars, occurred during the 8th to 10th centuries CE.
• The three dynasties involved were the Gurjara-Pratihara, the Rashtrakuta, and the Pala dynasties.
• Kannauj was a significant and strategically important city due to its location and its control over the fertile Ganges-Yamuna Doab region.
• The control over Kannauj was seen as a symbol of sovereignty and paramount power in northern India.
• This prolonged conflict weakened the three dynasties, eventually leading to the rise of other regional powers.

Additional Information

• Gurjara-Pratihara Dynasty
  • The Gurjara-Pratiharas were known for their strong military prowess and played a key role in resisting Arab invasions in western India.
  • They ruled over a large part of northern India, with their capital initially at Bhinmal and later at Kannauj.
• Rashtrakuta Dynasty
  • The Rashtrakutas were a powerful dynasty in the Deccan region, known for their patronage of art and architecture.
  • They ruled from their capital at Manyakheta and were known for their extensive campaigns in northern India.
• Pala Dynasty
  • The Palas ruled over the Bengal and Bihar regions and were renowned for their support of Buddhism and establishment of universities like Nalanda and Vikramashila.
  • Their capital was initially at Pataliputra and later at Vikrampura.
• Significance of Kannauj
  • Kannauj was historically a major center for trade, culture, and politics in northern India.
  • Its control was often contested due to its strategic location and prosperity.

The correct answer is Krishna I.

Key Points

• Rashtrakuta ruler Dantidurga was succeeded by his uncle Krishna I after he died without a male heir.
• Krishna I is credited with consolidating the Rashtrakuta empire and expanding its territories.
• He was a great patron of art and architecture, most notably associated with the construction of the Kailasa Temple at Ellora.
• Krishna I ruled during the late 8th century CE and played a key role in strengthening the Rashtrakuta dynasty.
• He defeated the Ganga dynasty and other rivals, ensuring Rashtrakuta supremacy in peninsular India.

Additional Information

• Rashtrakuta Dynasty:
  • The Rashtrakutas were a prominent dynasty in southern and central India between the 6th and 10th centuries CE.
  • Their empire extended from the Vindhyas in the north to Kanyakumari in the south.
  • They are well-known for their contributions to art, literature, and architecture.
• Kailasa Temple:
  • Constructed under the patronage of Krishna I, the Kailasa Temple is a rock-cut monolithic structure at Ellora.
  • The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered an architectural marvel of ancient India.
  • It showcases intricate carvings and sculptures that depict various Hindu mythological themes.
• Dantidurga:
  • Also known as Dantivarman, he was the founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty.
  • He overthrew the Chalukyas of Badami to establish Rashtrakuta dominance in the Deccan region.
  • His reign marked the beginning of a powerful lineage that influenced Indian history.
• Ellora Caves:
  • A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Ellora Caves are located in Maharashtra, India.
  • The site consists of 34 rock-cut monasteries and temples belonging to Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions.
  • The Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) is the most famous structure within this complex.