UPSC Prelims 2003 Q93: Ancient History – Post - Gupta & Early Medieval Dynasties
Emperor Harsha’s southward march was stopped on the Narmada River by
- (a) Pulakesin - I
- (b) Pulakesin - II
- (c) Vikramaditya - I
- (d) Vikramaditya - II
Answer: (b) Pulakesin - II
Explanation
Harsha's southward march halted on the Narmada
| Ruler | Link |
|---|---|
| Pulakesin II | Yes — Chalukya king of Vatapi who defeated Harsha, about 618-619 AD |
| Pulakesin I | Founder, earlier |
| Vikramaditya I / II | Later Chalukyas |
Pulakesin II of the Chalukyas of Badami stopped Harsha's southward march on the Narmada.
Answer: (b) Pulakesin - II.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Pulakesin I was earlier and not Harsha's opponent.
- (b) CORRECT. Pulakesin II defeated Harsha on the Narmada.
- (c) Incorrect. Vikramaditya I was Pulakesin II's son.
- (d) Incorrect. Vikramaditya II ruled much later.
Key point
Aihole inscription (Ravikirti) records Pulakesin II's victory over Harsha.
Remember
Pulakesin II stopped Harsha on the banks of the Narmada.
Common mistakes
- Choosing Pulakesin I, the founder.
- Mixing up the two Vikramadityas of the Chalukyas.
- Forgetting the Aihole inscription of Ravikirti.
Exam tip
Pulakesin II: Aihole inscription; Harsha: Harshacharita.
Sources
- Ravikirti — Aihole inscription of Pulakeshin II (634 CE)
- Romila Thapar — A History of India, Volume 1 (Penguin)