Part of: Assam Gk set 14

IN 13th CENTURY ASSAM WAS KNOWN AS

Category: Assam Gk

Hint: Consider the historical names of Assam during the medieval period.

Correct Answer: C) KAMARUPA

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The historical name of Assam in the 13th century was Kamarupa. Kamarupa was a significant political and cultural entity in northeastern India, encompassing the region that is now part of Assam and its neighboring areas. The term "Kamarupa" is derived from the Sanskrit words "Kama" (desire) and "Rupa" (form), which together can be interpreted as "the land of desire" or "the land of beauty."

The Kamarupa kingdom was established in the 4th century and lasted until the 12th century. It was a powerful and influential kingdom during the medieval period, known for its rich cultural and religious heritage. The kingdom was ruled by various dynasties, including the Varman and Mlechchha dynasties, which contributed significantly to the region's development and prosperity.

During the 13th century, the Kamarupa kingdom was in decline, and the region was eventually taken over by the Ahom dynasty, which originated from the Shan states of present-day Myanmar. The Ahoms established their rule in Assam in the early 13th century and continued to dominate the region for several centuries. However, the name "Kamarupa" was still used to refer to the region during the early part of the 13th century.

It is important to note that the term "Kamarupa" is not to be confused with the modern country of Myanmar, which is located to the east of Assam. Myanmar is a contemporary name and was not a historical name for Assam during the 13th century. The historical context and the geographical extent of Kamarupa are crucial to understanding the correct answer to this question.

Understanding the historical names and the political entities of regions is essential for comprehending the historical and cultural development of a place. In the case of Assam, the term "Kamarupa" is a significant historical name that reflects the region's rich past and its importance in medieval India.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Incorrect. The Ahom dynasty came to power in Assam much later, around the 13th century, but Assam was not known as Ahom during the 13th century.
  • Option B: Incorrect. Myanmar is the modern name for the country to the east of Assam and was not a historical name for Assam in the 13th century.
  • Option C: Correct. Kamarupa was the historical name for the region that is now part of Assam during the 13th century.
  • Option D: Incorrect. Kamarupa is a valid historical name for Assam in the 13th century, so "None of the above" is not correct.

Mnemonic: KAMARUPA: Keep Ancient Medieval Records Up Properly

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