Explanations:The invasion of the Indian subcontinent by Alexander the Great in the 4th century BCE is a significant event in ancient history. Alexander, after conquering the Persian Empire, continued his eastern campaign into the Indian subcontinent, aiming to extend his empire to the easternmost limits of the known world.
During this time, the region of Punjab was under the control of King Poros (also known as Porus). Poros was a powerful ruler of the region, and his kingdom was located along the Hydaspes River (modern-day Jhelum River). The Battle of the Hydaspes River, fought in 326 BCE, was a crucial engagement between Alexander's forces and Poros's army. Despite being outnumbered, Alexander managed to defeat Poros, but he was so impressed by Poros's bravery and leadership that he allowed him to retain his kingdom as a vassal state.
It is important to understand the historical context of this invasion. Alexander's campaign was part of a larger series of conquests that began with his ascension to the throne of Macedon in 336 BCE. His invasion of the Indian subcontinent was the easternmost extent of his empire, and it marked the end of his major military campaigns. The encounter with Poros was one of the most significant battles of this campaign, and it is often cited as a turning point that led to Alexander's decision to turn back westward.
Other figures mentioned in the options, such as Bessus and Ariobarzanes, were Persian satraps and not rulers of Punjab. Bessus was involved in the assassination of Darius III and was later defeated by Alexander, while Ariobarzanes was a Persian satrap who fought against Alexander but was not in control of Punjab. Craterus, on the other hand, was a Macedonian general under Alexander and played a significant role in the military campaigns but was not a ruler of Punjab.
Understanding the historical context and the specific rulers of the regions during Alexander's invasion is crucial for comprehending the dynamics of the ancient world and the interactions between different empires and kingdoms. The Battle of the Hydaspes River and the encounter with Poros are key events in the study of ancient Indian and Macedonian history.