Pratihara

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  • Theline of Nagabhata ruled first at Ujjain and later at Kannauj during the 8th to 11th centuries.
  • In the complicated and badly documented wars of the early 9th century—involving Pratiharas, Rastrakutas, and Palas—Nagabhata II played an important part. About 816 he invaded theIndo-Gangetic Plain and captured Kannauj from the local king Chakrayudha, who had the protection of the Pala ruler Dharmapala.
  • With the power of the Rastrakutas weakened, Nagabhata II became the most powerful ruler of northern India and established his new capital at Kannauj.
  • After the death of Mahendrapala, the SUCCESSION is obscure. The power of the Pratiharas was apparently weakened by dynastic strife. It was further diminished as a result of a great raid from the Deccan, led by the Rastrakuta kingIndra III, who about 916 sacked Kannauj.
  • Their last important king,Rajyapala, was driven from Kannauj by Maḥmūd of Ghazna in 1018 and was later killed by the forces of the Chandela king Vidyadhara. For about a generation longer a small Pratihara principality apparently survived in the area of Allahabad.

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    Sources of Gurjara Pratiharas’ History

    • Historians believe that after the Gupta period, Gurjara Pratiharas came to India from the central Asian region and settled in Rajasthan. Gradually, they gained political importance.
    • The bardic tradition of Rajasthan claims that the Gurjara Pratiharas, Chalukyas, Parmaras, and Chahmanas were born out of a yajnadone at Mount Abu. Therefore, these four dynasties are also known as agnikulas (fire-clans).
    • The four dynasties of Rajputs were created for the protection of the country from external aggressions.
    • The literary meaning of Pratihara is ‘door keeper.’ It is believed that their ancestor Lakshmana served as a door keeper to his brother Rama. Therefore, they were called as Pratihara.
    • The geographical name of Gujarat is supposed to be derived from Gurjara.

    Rulers of Gurjara Pratiharas

    • The Gwalior inscription mentioned the early history of the family. The inscription was founded byKing Bhoja in the 7th  He was the most famous king of the Gurjara Pratiharas dynasty.
    • Nagabhatta-Iwas the real founder of the fame of family. He defeated the Muslim forces from the Arabs.
    • During A.D. 775-800, Vatsaraja followed an aggressive imperial policy. He defeated Pala king Dharmapala of Bengal.
    • The Rashtrakuta king Dhruva defeated Vatsaraja and took away the political benefit of the defeat of Pala king.
    • Dharmapala took advantage of the defeat of Vatsaraja and installed his own nominee Chakrayudba on the throne of Kanauj.
    • Vatsaraja’s son, Nagabhatta II (A.D.815) made an alliance with Andhra, Vidharbha, and Kalinga. He made extensive preparation to fight against his rivals.
    • Nagabhatta II first defeated Chakrayudha and captured Kanauj. Then he defeated Dharmapala and fought with Govinda-III, the Rashtrakuta king.
    • Nagabhatta also defeated Sultan Vega who was the son of the governor of Sind under the Caliph-l Mamun.
    • Nagabhatta-II was succeeded by his son Ramabhadra.
    • Ramabhadra was succeeded by his son Bhoja-I about A.D. 836.
    • Bhoja-I restored the falling prosperities and reputation of his dynasty.
    • A golden opportunity to the king Bhoja-I was provided by the death of Devapala of Bengal and Rashtrakuta’s invasion of Bengal thereafter.
    • The Rashtrakuta king, Krishna II was involved in the struggle with the Eastern Chalukyas.
    • Bhoja-I defeated Krishna-II and captured the region of Malwa and Gujarat.
    • After victory over two great rivals, Bhoja-I founded his Sovereignty over the Punjab, Avadh, and other territories of north India and consolidated his empire.
    • Bhoja-I was a devotee of Vishnu, and adopted the title of‘Adivaraha.’ It has been inscribed in some of his coins. He is also known by other names as ‘Mihir‘, ‘Prabhasa,’ etc.
    • Bhoja-I was succeeded by his son Mahendrapala-I about A.D. 885.
    • Mahendrapala-I also extended the boundaries of his empire. During his reign, the Pratihara Empire stretched almost from the Himalayas in the north to the Vindhyas in the south and from Bengal in the east to Gujarat in the west.
    • Mahendrapala-I was also known as‘Mahendrayudha’, and ‘Nirbhayanarendra.’ He was a liberal patron of learned men.
    • Rajashehara was learned man of his court. He had writtenKarpuramanjari, Bala-Ramayana, Bala Bharata, Kavyamimansa, Bhuvana Kosha, and Haravilasa.
    • The Pratiharas dynasty dominated north India for over two hundred years from the 8thcentury to the 10th century A.D.
    • Arab scholar, Al-Masudi, visited India in A.D. 915-916.
    • Al-Masudi mentioned about the great powers and prestige of the Pratihara rulers and the vastness of their empire.
    • Al-Masudi says that empire of AI-Juzr (Gurjara) had 1,800,000 villages, the cities and rural areas were about 2,000 km in length and 2,000 km in breadth.
    • The Rashtrakuta king, Indra-II again attacked Kanauj between A.D. 915 and A.D. 918 and completely destroyed it. This weakened the Pratihara Empire.
    • Krishna-III was other Rashtrakuta ruler invaded north India in about A.D. 963. He defeated the Pratihara rulers. This led to decline of Pratihara Empire.
    • The Pratiharas were patrons of Learning and literature.
    • Rajashekhar (Sanskrit poet) lived at the court of Mahendrapala-I.
    • The Pratihara kings were followers of Hinduism-2/”>Hinduism.
    • They build with many fine buildings and temples at Kanauj.
    • The epigraphic records show that the building of temples and the educational institutions attached with them, formed community projects, in which the entire village community participated.
    • Many Indian scholars went to the court of the Caliph at Baghdad along with embassies. However, the names of the Indian kings are not known who sent these embassies.
    • This interaction between India and Arab led to the spread of Indian culture, literature, and science, especially mathematics, algebra, and medicine to the Arab world from where these were further transmitted to Europe.
    • Although the Pratiharas were well known for their aggression to the Arab rulers of Sindh.
    • Despite all this, the movement of scholars and trade between India and west Asia remained uninterrupted.

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    The Pratihara Empire was a major Indian empire that ruled over much of northern India from the 7th to the 11th centuries. The Pratiharas were originally a vassal state of the Gurjara-Pratiharas, but they eventually became independent and established their own empire. The Pratiharas were a powerful and influential dynasty, and they played a major role in the history of India.

    The Pratiharas were known for their military prowess, and they were able to defeat many of their enemies. They were also patrons of the arts and literature, and they built many temples and palaces. The Pratiharas were eventually overthrown by the Chaulukyas, but their legacy continues to this day.

    Pratihara Empire

    The Pratihara Empire was founded in the 7th century by Maharaja Nagabhata I. The Pratiharas were originally a vassal state of the Gurjara-Pratiharas, but they eventually became independent and established their own empire. The Pratihara Empire reached its peak under the rule of Maharaja Mihira Bhoja (836-885 CE). Mihira Bhoja was a powerful and successful ruler, and he was able to expand the Pratihara Empire to its greatest extent.

    The Pratihara Empire was a major power in northern India for over 300 years. The Pratiharas were able to maintain their power through a combination of military strength, political acumen, and cultural patronage. The Pratiharas were eventually overthrown by the Chaulukyas in the 11th century, but their legacy continues to this day.

    Pratihara rulers

    The Pratihara Empire was ruled by a series of powerful and successful rulers. The most famous of these rulers was Maharaja Mihira Bhoja (836-885 CE). Mihira Bhoja was a powerful and successful ruler, and he was able to expand the Pratihara Empire to its greatest extent. Mihira Bhoja was also a patron of the arts and literature, and he built many temples and palaces.

    Other notable Pratihara rulers include:

    • Maharaja Nagabhata I (606-645 CE): The founder of the Pratihara Empire.
    • Maharaja Rajyapala (730-756 CE): A powerful ruler who was able to defend the Pratihara Empire from the Arabs.
    • Maharaja Vatsaraja (775-805 CE): A successful ruler who was able to expand the Pratihara Empire.
    • Maharaja Ramapala (815-836 CE): A powerful ruler who was able to defend the Pratihara Empire from the Rashtrakutas.

    Pratihara art and architecture

    The Pratiharas were patrons of the arts and literature, and they built many temples and palaces. The Pratiharas were particularly known for their Temple Architecture. Pratihara temples are characterized by their intricate carvings and sculptures. Some of the most famous Pratihara temples include the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple in Khajuraho and the Dashavatara Temple in Deogarh.

    Pratihara religion

    The Pratiharas were Hindus, and they followed the Shaiva sect of Hinduism. The Pratiharas were patrons of many Hindu temples, and they built many new temples during their reign. The Pratiharas also supported many Hindu scholars and poets.

    Pratihara culture

    The Pratiharas were a highly cultured people, and they made many contributions to Indian art, literature, and architecture. The Pratiharas were also patrons of the arts, and they supported many artists, musicians, and dancers.

    Pratihara decline and fall

    The Pratihara Empire began to decline in the 10th century. The Pratiharas were weakened by a series of internal conflicts, and they were also facing increasing pressure from the Turks. The Pratihara Empire was eventually overthrown by the Chaulukyas in the 11th century.

    Pratihara legacy

    The Pratiharas were a powerful and influential dynasty, and they played a major role in the history of India. The Pratiharas were known for their military prowess, and they were able to defeat many of their enemies. They were also patrons of the arts and literature, and they built many temples and palaces. The Pratiharas were eventually overthrown by the Chaulukyas, but their legacy continues to this day.

    What is the Pratihara Empire?

    The Pratihara Empire was an Indian empire that ruled over much of northern India from the 7th to the 11th centuries. It was founded by the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty, which originated in the western Indian state of Gujarat. The Pratihara Empire reached its peak under the reign of Maharaja Mihira Bhoja (836-885 CE), who is considered to be one of the greatest rulers in Indian history. The Pratihara Empire declined in the 11th century, and was eventually overthrown by the Ghaznavid Turks in 1019 CE.

    What were the causes of the Pratihara Empire’s decline?

    The Pratihara Empire declined for a number of reasons. One reason was the rise of the Ghaznavid Turks in the 11th century. The Ghaznavids were a Muslim empire based in Afghanistan, and they launched a series of invasions into India that eventually led to the overthrow of the Pratihara Empire. Another reason for the Pratihara Empire’s decline was internal conflict. The empire was divided into a number of smaller kingdoms, and these kingdoms often fought with each other. This internal conflict weakened the empire and made it more vulnerable to attack from outside.

    What were the achievements of the Pratihara Empire?

    The Pratihara Empire was a major power in India for over 300 years. It was a time of great cultural and economic prosperity. The Pratiharas built many temples and palaces, and they patronized the arts and sciences. They also played a major role in the spread of Hinduism in India.

    What was the impact of the Pratihara Empire on Indian history?

    The Pratihara Empire had a significant impact on Indian history. It was a major power in India for over 300 years, and it played a major role in the spread of Hinduism. The Pratiharas also built many temples and palaces, and they patronized the arts and sciences. Their empire was eventually overthrown by the Ghaznavid Turks in 1019 CE, but their legacy continues to this day.

    What are some of the key events in the history of the Pratihara Empire?

    Some of the key events in the history of the Pratihara Empire include:

    • The founding of the empire by the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty in the 7th century CE.
    • The peak of the empire under the reign of Maharaja Mihira Bhoja (836-885 CE).
    • The decline of the empire in the 11th century CE, and its eventual overthrow by the Ghaznavid Turks in 1019 CE.

    Who were some of the key figures in the history of the Pratihara Empire?

    Some of the key figures in the history of the Pratihara Empire include:

    • Maharaja Mihira Bhoja (836-885 CE), who is considered to be one of the greatest rulers in Indian history.
    • The Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty, which founded the empire in the 7th century CE.
    • The Ghaznavid Turks, who overthrew the Pratihara Empire in 1019 CE.

    What are some of the sources of information about the Pratihara Empire?

    Some of the sources of information about the Pratihara Empire include:

    • The writings of contemporary historians, such as Al-Biruni and Alberuni.
    • The inscriptions and coins of the Pratihara Empire.
    • The archaeological remains of the Pratihara Empire, such as temples and palaces.

    Question 1

    The Pratiharas were a dynasty of Rajputs who ruled over a large part of northern India from the 7th to the 11th centuries. They were initially vassals of the Gurjara-Pratiharas, but they eventually became independent and ruled over a vast empire that included much of present-day Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh.

    The Pratiharas were a powerful and influential dynasty, and they played a major role in the history of India. They were patrons of the arts and literature, and they built many temples and other monuments.

    The Pratiharas were eventually overthrown by The Chauhans in the 11th century, but their legacy continues to this day.

    Which of the following is NOT true about the Pratiharas?

    (A) They were a dynasty of Rajputs.
    (B) They ruled over a large part of northern India from the 7th to the 11th centuries.
    (C) They were initially vassals of the Gurjara-Pratiharas.
    (D) They were overthrown by the Chauhans in the 11th century.
    (E) They were patrons of the arts and literature.

    Answer

    The correct answer is (C). The Pratiharas were not initially vassals of the Gurjara-Pratiharas. In fact, they were the ones who overthrew the Gurjara-Pratiharas and established their own dynasty.

    Question 2

    The Pratiharas were a powerful and influential dynasty, and they played a major role in the history of India. They were patrons of the arts and literature, and they built many temples and other monuments.

    Which of the following is NOT a monument built by the Pratiharas?

    (A) The Kandariya Mahadeva Temple in Khajuraho
    (B) The Sun Temple at Konark
    (C) The Brihadeeswara Temple at Thanjavur
    (D) The Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram
    (E) The Ajanta Caves

    Answer

    The correct answer is (C). The Brihadeeswara Temple at Thanjavur was built by the Chola dynasty, not the Pratiharas.

    Question 3

    The Pratiharas were eventually overthrown by the Chauhans in the 11th century.

    Which of the following is NOT true about the Chauhans?

    (A) They were a dynasty of Rajputs.
    (B) They ruled over a large part of northern India from the 11th to the 12th centuries.
    (C) They were patrons of the arts and literature.
    (D) They were overthrown by the Mughals in the 16th century.
    (E) They built many temples and other monuments.

    Answer

    The correct answer is (B). The Chauhans ruled over a large part of northern India from the 11th to the 13th centuries, not the 11th to the 12th centuries.

    Question 4

    The Chauhans were eventually overthrown by the Mughals in the 16th century.

    Which of the following is NOT true about the Mughals?

    (A) They were a Muslim dynasty.
    (B) They ruled over a large part of India from the 16th to the 18th centuries.
    (C) They were patrons of the arts and literature.
    (D) They built many temples and other monuments.
    (E) They were overthrown by the British in the 18th century.

    Answer

    The correct answer is (D). The Mughals did not build many temples. In fact, they were known for destroying Hindu temples.

    Question 5

    The British were eventually overthrown by the Indian people in the 19th century.

    Which of the following is NOT true about the Indian independence movement?

    (A) It was led by Mahatma Gandhi.
    (B) It was a nonviolent movement.
    (C) It was successful in achieving independence for India in 1947.
    (D) It was a long and difficult struggle.
    (E) It was led by Jawaharlal Nehru.

    Answer

    The correct answer is (E). Jawaharlal Nehru was the first Prime Minister of India, but he was not the leader of the Indian independence movement. The leader of the Indian independence movement was Mahatma Gandhi.

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