Question 75 from UPSC CSE 2023 - Medieval History

Question

Consider the following dynasties:
1. Hoysala
2. Gahadavala
3. Kakatiya
4. Yadava
How many of the above dynasties established their kingdoms in early eighth century AD?

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: D. None

Strategy: *   Identify the key period for establishment: 'early eighth century AD'.
*   Recall the approximate timelines for the Hoysala, Gahadavala, Kakatiya, and Yadava dynasties.
*   Compare each dynasty's establishment period against the early 8th century AD (c. 700-750 AD).
*   Determine that all listed dynasties were established significantly later, primarily between the mid-9th and 12th centuries.
*   Conclude that 'none of the above' is the correct option as no dynasty fits the specified criteria.

Key Info: **Hoysala Dynasty**
Flourished in southern Karnataka with its capital at Belur and Halebidu, the Hoysala dynasty rose to prominence around 1026 CE and lasted until 1343 CE. They are famous for intricate temple architecture (e.g., Chennakesava Temple, Hoysaleswara Temple) but were not in existence in the 8th century.

**Gahadavala Dynasty**
The Gahadavala rule began around the late 11th century and continued through the 12th century, centered in Kannauj and Varanasi (present-day Uttar Pradesh). They played a vital role in resisting Ghaznavid and Ghurid invasions but have no linkage to the 8th century.

**Kakatiya Dynasty**
The Kakatiyas became prominent in the 12th century (c. 1163-1323 CE), ruling from Warangal in the eastern Deccan. Their legacy includes the construction of the Warangal Fort and important irrigation tanks. They established sovereignty only in the 12th century.

**Yadava (Seuna) Dynasty**
The Yadavas (Seunas) established themselves around 850 CE (mid-9th century), with their seat at Devagiri (now Daulatabad, Maharashtra). Their prominence grew during the 12th and 13th centuries, especially under rulers like Bhillama V and Singhana II. They are not associated with the early 8th century.

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**Summary**
No listed dynasty was founded or established its kingdom in the early eighth century AD. During that period, the early medieval Deccan and north Indian regions had other dominant powers, such as the Rashtrakutas in the Deccan and the Pratiharas in north India.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: Only one

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: Only two

IASCODEX · Answer

Option C: Only three

Consider the following dynasties: Hoysala Gahadavala Kakatiya Yadava How many of the above dynasties established their kingdoms in early eighth century AD?

Consider the following dynasties:

Hoysala

Gahadavala

Kakatiya

Yadava

How many of the above dynasties established their kingdoms in early eighth century AD?