The Bharatas and Purus were prominent tribes in Punjab during the:

Early Vedic Period
Later Vedic Period
Mauryan Period
Gupta Period

The correct answer is: b) Later Vedic Period.

The Bharatas and Purus were prominent tribes in Punjab during the Later Vedic Period. The Later Vedic Period is the second half of the Vedic period, which lasted from 1500 to 500 BCE. The Later Vedic Period is characterized by the development of new social and political structures, as well as the rise of new religious ideas.

The Bharatas and Purus were two of the most powerful tribes in the Later Vedic Period. The Bharatas were a warrior tribe, while the Purus were a farming tribe. The two tribes often fought each other, but they also allied themselves against common enemies.

The Bharatas and Purus were eventually united into a single kingdom, which was ruled by the Kuru dynasty. The Kuru kingdom was one of the most powerful kingdoms in the Later Vedic Period. It was during this time that the Mahabharata, one of the most important Hindu epics, was composed.

The Later Vedic Period was a time of great change and upheaval. The old Vedic social order was breaking down, and new social and political structures were emerging. The rise of the Bharatas and Purus was one of the most important developments of this period.

The other options are incorrect because:

  • The Early Vedic Period was the first half of the Vedic period, which lasted from 1500 to 500 BCE. The Early Vedic Period is characterized by the Aryan migration to India and the establishment of the first Vedic settlements.
  • The Mauryan Period was a period of Indian history that lasted from 322 to 185 BCE. The Mauryan Empire was the largest empire in Indian history, and it was ruled by the Mauryan dynasty.
  • The Gupta Period was a period of Indian history that lasted from 320 to 550 CE. The Gupta Empire was a golden age of Indian history, and it was known for its achievements in art, literature, and science.