Consider the following statements about Rashtrakuta kings : They we

Consider the following statements about Rashtrakuta kings :

  • They were ardent patrons of Shaivism and did not support other forms of religion.
  • They promoted only Sanskrit scholars and gave them large grants.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

1 only
2 only
Both 1 and 2
Neither 1 nor 2
This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-1 – 2016
The correct answer is D) Neither 1 nor 2.
Statement 1 is incorrect. Rashtrakuta kings were known for their religious tolerance. While some rulers were patrons of Shaivism, they also supported and patronized other religions like Jainism, Vaishnavism, and Buddhism. Evidence includes the famous rock-cut caves at Ellora, which contain sculptures and monuments related to Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism, largely patronized by the Rashtrakutas.
Statement 2 is incorrect. The Rashtrakutas were patrons of not just Sanskrit but also other languages, most notably Kannada. Their court produced important works in Kannada, such as the Kavirajamarga by Amoghavarsha I, which is considered a foundational work in Kannada literature. They patronized scholars of various linguistic and religious backgrounds.
The Rashtrakuta dynasty ruled parts of South India from the 8th to the 10th centuries. Important rulers included Dantidurga (founder), Krishna I (built the Kailasa temple at Ellora), and Amoghavarsha I (a great scholar and patron of letters). Their reign is noted for its cultural achievements, including architectural marvels like Ellora and Elephanta caves and significant literary contributions in multiple languages.