Question 38 from UPSC CSE 2025 - Medieval History

Question

Who among the following led a successful military campaign against the Kingdom of Srivijaya, the powerful maritime state, which ruled the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Java, and the neighbouring islands?

Accepted Answer

Correct Option: C. Rajendra I (Chola)

Strategy: Focus on identifying the personality associated with overseas naval expeditions. Rajendra I, of the Chola dynasty, is uniquely known for having led successful naval campaigns far into Southeast Asia, particularly against Srivijaya. Other options such as Amoghavarsha, Prataparudra, and Vishnuvardhana are linked to powerful Indian kingdoms but not to maritime campaigns in the Indonesian archipelago.

Key Info: The Chola dynasty, especially under Rajendra I (ruled 1014–1044 CE), was marked by ambitious foreign expeditions. Rajendra I extended his rule beyond the Indian subcontinent and achieved a renowned naval victory over the Srivijaya empire in 1025 CE. The Srivijaya kingdom, centered on Sumatra, dominated major sea routes and regional trade across the Malay Peninsula, Java, and parts of Sumatra. Rajendra I dispatched a powerful fleet that successfully attacked prominent Srivijayan ports such as Kadaram (Kedah) and captured key regions, disrupting Srivijaya's naval power. These campaigns asserted Chola dominance over the Bay of Bengal and enhanced Indian influence in Southeast Asia. The Chola navy played a crucial role in regional politics and trade.

The other personalities are not linked to campaigns against Srivijaya: Amoghavarsha belonged to the Rashtrakuta dynasty, known for Deccan power and patronage of arts; Prataparudra was a Kakatiya ruler notable for resistance against Delhi Sultanate; Vishnuvardhana was a Hoysala king known for territorial expansion in southern India and temple architecture, but without overseas military pursuits.

Answer

Option A: Amoghavarsha (Rashtrakuta)

Answer

Option B: Prataparudra (Kakatiya)

Answer

Option D: Vishnuvardhana (Hoysala)