Part of: Assam Gk set 3

Who among the following ruler assume the title of Maharaja Dhiraj Parameswar param Bhattaarka?

Category: Assam Gk

Hint: Consider the historical context of the rulers of Assam and their titles.

Correct Answer: C) Both

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The title "Maharaja Dhiraj Parameswar Param Bhattaraka" is a significant historical title that was used by rulers of the Kamarupa kingdom, which was located in the region of present-day Assam. This title is a combination of several Sanskrit terms that denote supreme authority and divine kingship. "Maharaja" means "great king," "Dhiraj" means "king of kings," "Parameswar" means "supreme lord," and "Param Bhattaraka" means "supreme lord and protector." The use of such a title indicates the rulers' claim to absolute power and divine right to rule.

Harjara Varman and Bala Varman II were two prominent rulers of the Kamarupa kingdom who assumed this title. Harjara Varman was a ruler of the Kamarupa kingdom in the 10th century CE, and he is known for his military campaigns and administrative reforms. Bala Varman II, who ruled in the 12th century CE, was also a significant ruler who continued the tradition of using the title "Maharaja Dhiraj Parameswar Param Bhattaraka."

The title "Maharaja Dhiraj Parameswar Param Bhattaraka" was not unique to these two rulers but was used by several rulers of the Kamarupa kingdom to assert their authority and divine right to rule. The use of such titles was common in ancient Indian kingdoms, where rulers often used grandiose titles to emphasize their power and legitimacy.

Understanding the historical context and the significance of these titles is crucial for comprehending the political and cultural landscape of ancient Assam. The title "Maharaja Dhiraj Parameswar Param Bhattaraka" reflects the rulers' aspirations to be seen as supreme and divine, which was a common practice among ancient Indian monarchs.

Therefore, the correct answer is that both Harjara Varman and Bala Varman II assumed the title of Maharaja Dhiraj Parameswar Param Bhattaraka. This answer acknowledges the historical fact that multiple rulers of the Kamarupa kingdom used this title to assert their authority and divine right to rule.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Harjara Varman did assume the title of Maharaja Dhiraj Parameswar Param Bhattaraka, but he was not the only ruler to do so. This option is partially correct but not fully accurate.
  • Option B: Bala Varman II also assumed the title of Maharaja Dhiraj Parameswar Param Bhattaraka, but he was not the only ruler to do so. This option is partially correct but not fully accurate.
  • Option C: Both Harjara Varman and Bala Varman II assumed the title of Maharaja Dhiraj Parameswar Param Bhattaraka. This option is correct as it acknowledges the use of the title by both rulers.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect because both Harjara Varman and Bala Varman II did assume the title of Maharaja Dhiraj Parameswar Param Bhattaraka.

Mnemonic: DPPB for Dhiraj Parameswar Param Bhattaraka

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