Table of Contents:
- About Rashtrakuta Dynasty
- Ruler of the Rashtrakuta Dynasty
- Art and culture of the Rashtrakutas dynasty
- Administration of the Rashtrakutas dynasty
- Descriptive Questions:
- How did the Rashtrakuta become powerful?
- Who were the parties involved in the "Tripartite struggle"?
- MCQ and QUIZ
Rashtrakuta dynasty
The Rashtrakuta dynasty was a prominent Indian dynasty that ruled in the Deccan region. They were contemporary to the Pala Dynasty ( Bengal and Bihar), the Pratiharas Dynasty ( Gujarat and Malwa), the Chalukyas of Vengi ( Andhra Pradesh), Pallavas of Kanchi, and the Pandyas of Madurai.
The Rashtrakuta dynasty originated in the Deccan region of India, specifically in present-day Karnataka. The Rashtrakuta dynasty was founded by Dantidurga who set up his capital at Manyakhet or Malkhed near modern Sholapur. However, it was his successor, King Krishna I, who expanded the kingdom's territory and laid the foundation for the dynasty's greatness.
Under the rule of King Dhruva, the Rashtrakutas reached their zenith of power and influence. Dhruva's son, Govinda III, and his grandson, Amoghavarsha, further expanded the empire, conquering vast territories in Central India and parts of South India. The Rashtrakutas were known for their military prowess and were formidable opponents to their contemporaries, including the Pallavas, Chalukyas, and Pala dynasties.
The Rashtrakutas made significant contributions to Indian art and architecture. They were patrons of the fine arts and encouraged the development of literature, sculpture, and temple architecture. The rock-cut temples of Ellora, which include the famous Kailasanatha temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, were constructed during their rule and are considered masterpieces of Indian architecture.
One of the notable achievements of the Rashtrakutas was their patronage of the Kannada language. They played a vital role in the development of Kannada literature, and the reign of King Amoghavarsha is often referred to as the "golden age" of Kannada literature. The famous Kannada poet Pampa, who wrote the epic poem "Vikramarjuna Vijaya" (also known as "Pampa Bharata"), enjoyed the patronage of the Rashtrakuta king.
However, the Rashtrakuta dynasty started to decline in the 10th century due to internal conflicts and external invasions. They faced attacks from the Chola dynasty and later the Chalukyas of Kalyani. By the 10th century, their power had significantly weakened, and they were eventually overthrown by the Western Chalukyas.
Rulers of the Rashtrakuta dynasty:
The following are the rulers of the Rashtrakutas dynasty:
- Dantidurga ( 735-756 CE)
- Krishna I (756-774 CE)
- Govinda II ( 774-780 CE)
- Dhruva Dharavarsha ( 780-793 CE)
- Govinda III ( 793-814 CE)
- Amoghavarsha ( 814-878 CE)
- Krishna II ( 878-914 CE)
- Indra III ( 914-929 CE)
- Amoghvarsha II ( 929-930 CE)
- Govinda IV ( 930-936 CE)
- Amoghavarsha III ( 936-939 CE)
- Krishna III ( 939-967 CE)
- Khottiga ( 967-972 CE)
- Karka II ( 972-973 CE)
- Indra IV ( 973-982 CE)
The following are some of the notable rulers of the Rashtrakuta dynasty:
Dantidurga (735-756 CE):
Dantidurga is considered the founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty. He established the Rashtrakuta kingdom in 735 CE and laid the foundation for the dynasty's rule in the Deccan region.
Dantidurga defeated the Badami Chalukya king, Keerthi Verma. He also performed the a ritual called "Hiranya-Garbha".
Krishna I (756-774 CE):
Krishna I succeeded Dantidurga and expanded the Rashtrakuta kingdom's territory. He undertook successful military campaigns and established the dynasty's dominance in Central and Northern India.
Dhruva (774-780 CE):
Dhruva, the son of Krishna I, further expanded the empire's borders and reached the zenith of Rashtrakuta power. He was known for his successful military campaigns and diplomatic prowess.
Govinda III (793-814 CE):
Govinda III, the son of Dhruva, continued the expansionist policies of his predecessors. He led successful campaigns against the Pallavas and the Pala dynasty, further strengthening the Rashtrakuta empire.
Amoghavarsha (814-878 CE):
Amoghavarsha, the son of Govinda III, is considered one of the greatest rulers of the Rashtrakuta dynasty. He was a patron of arts, literature, and education and is often referred to as the "philosopher king." During his reign, the Rashtrakuta empire reached its cultural and intellectual peak.
Indra III (914-929 CE):
Indra III ruled during a period of decline for the Rashtrakuta dynasty. He faced significant challenges from the Cholas and the emerging Western Chalukyas. His reign marked the beginning of the end for the dynasty.
Krishna III (939-967 CE):
Krishna II defeated the Chola king, Parantaka I, and annexed the northern part of the Chola empire.
Krishna III was one of the last rulers of the Rashtrakuta dynasty. He faced invasions from the Chalukyas of Kalyani and the Paramara dynasty. His reign witnessed the final decline and fragmentation of the Rashtrakuta empire.
Art and culture of the Rashtrakutas dynasty:
The Rashtrakuta dynasty made significant contributions to art and culture during their rule. They were patrons of literature, architecture, sculpture, and other forms of artistic expression.
The following are some notable aspects of the art and culture of the Rashtrakutas:
Architecture:
The Rashtrakutas were known for their patronage of temple architecture. They built numerous rock-cut temples, especially at Ellora near Aurangabad in Maharashtra.
The most famous among them is the Kailasanatha temple ( in Ellora cave), dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was built by Rashtrakuta King Krishna I in the 8th century CE.
The Dasavatara gallery showing the ten incarnations of Vishnu is a masterpiece of architecture.
Sculpture:
The Rashtrakutas encouraged the development of sculpture, particularly in temple complexes. Sculptures of gods, goddesses, and other mythological figures were intricately carved on the walls and pillars of their temples. The sculptures exhibited a distinctive style characterized by elaborate ornamentation and attention to detail.
Literature:
The Rashtrakuta dynasty was a patron of literature, particularly in the Kannada language. The reign of King Amoghavarsha is often referred to as the "golden age" of Kannada literature.
The Great Apabharamsha poet, Svayambhu lived at the Rashtrakuta court.
The famous Kannada poet Pampa, who wrote the epic poem "Vikramarjuna Vijaya" (also known as "Pampa Bharata"), enjoyed the patronage of the Rashtrakuta king.
Other notable Kannada poets, such as Ranna and Sri Ponna, also flourished during this period.
Kanheri University became popular during the Rashtrakutas dynasty.
Language and Scripts:
The Rashtrakutas contributed to the development of regional languages and scripts. They played a significant role in the evolution of the Kannada language and its literature. They also supported the growth of Sanskrit literature and encouraged the use of the Devanagari and Kannada scripts.
Music and Dance:
The Rashtrakutas were patrons of music and dance forms. They supported the development of classical Indian music and dance, and court musicians and dancers enjoyed their patronage. The cultural exchanges between the Rashtrakutas and their contemporaries, such as the Cholas and Chalukyas, led to the enrichment of performing arts in the Deccan region.
Administration of the Rashtrakutas dynasty
Al-Masudi who visited India at that time, described the Rashtrakuta king as the greatest king of India.
The administration of the Rashtrakuta dynasty was characterized by a centralized and efficient system of governance.
The following are some key aspects of the administration during their rule:
Monarchy:
The Rashtrakutas were ruled by hereditary monarchs who held absolute power. The king was the ultimate authority and had control over all aspects of governance. The dynasty followed a system of primogeniture, where the eldest son generally succeeded to the throne.
Administrative Divisions:
The Rashtrakuta empire was divided into several administrative divisions called Rashtras or provinces. These Rashtras were further subdivided into districts known as Vishayas. Each Vishaya was governed by an administrative officer called a Vishayapati or Vishayadhipati.
Central Administration:
The king had a central administration consisting of various ministers and officials who assisted in governance. Some of the key officials in the central administration included the Mahasandhi-Vigrahika (chief minister), the Mahabaladhikrita (chief commander of the army), the maharajadhiraja (senior king), and the Mahasandhivigrahika (chief peace negotiator).
Local Administration:
The Rashtrakutas had a well-organized system of local administration. The local administration was responsible for the day-to-day governance of the regions and included officials such as the Adhikari (administrator), the Vyavaharika (judicial officer), the Prabhu (local lord), and the Gramika (village headman). These officials collected taxes, maintained law and order, and resolved disputes at the local level.
Revenue Administration:
The Rashtrakutas collected revenue through various means, including land taxes, tolls, and trade duties. The revenue administration was headed by the Amatyas (revenue officers) who assessed and collected taxes. The revenue collected was utilized for the maintenance of the military, administration, and public infrastructure. The Rashtrakutas allowed Muslim traders to settle and permitted Islam to be preached.
Justice System:
The Rashtrakutas had a well-organized judicial system. The king was the supreme judge and final authority in legal matters. The administration had a hierarchy of judicial officers, such as the Dharmadhikari (chief justice), Nyayadhikari (judicial officer), and Yyavaharika (local judicial officer). The justice system followed the principles of Dharma and used the Dharmashastra texts as a basis for legal proceedings.
Diplomacy:
The Rashtrakutas engaged in diplomatic relations with other kingdoms and dynasties. They maintained diplomatic missions and had a network of ambassadors and envoys who represented the empire in dealings with other rulers. Marriages, alliances, and peace treaties were often used as diplomatic tools.
The administration of the Rashtrakuta dynasty was characterized by a well-organized bureaucracy, efficient revenue collection, and a hierarchical system of governance. The dynasty's administrative practices contributed to the stability and prosperity of its empire during its peak.
Descriptive Questions on Rashtrakuta Dynasty:
Question.
How did the Rashtrakuta Dynasty become powerful? (NCERT)
Answer.
The Rashtrakuta dynasty became powerful through a combination of military prowess, strategic alliances, territorial expansion, and patronage of arts and culture.
The following are some key factors that contributed to their rise and consolidation of power by Rashtrakuta:
Military Conquests:
The early Rashtrakuta rulers, such as Dantidurga and Krishna I, undertook successful military campaigns to expand their territory. They defeated rival kingdoms, including the Chalukyas, the Pallavas, and the Pratihara, and established their dominance in the Deccan region.
Strategic Alliances:
The Rashtrakutas formed strategic alliances with other regional powers to strengthen their position. They entered into matrimonial alliances and diplomatic agreements with kingdoms like the Chalukyas, the Gangas, and the Cholas. These alliances provided them with support in times of conflict and helped them consolidate their power.
Centralized Administration:
The Rashtrakutas developed a centralized administration that enabled efficient governance and collection of revenues. They established a well-organized bureaucracy with various officials and departments responsible for different aspects of administration. This centralized system helped them maintain control over their vast empire.
Patronage of Arts and Culture:
The Rashtrakutas were great patrons of arts, literature, and architecture. They provided patronage to poets, scholars, artists, and architects, which not only enriched the cultural landscape but also earned them prestige and support from the intellectual elite. This cultural patronage helped enhance their reputation and influence.
Expansion into Northern and Central India:
Under the rule of King Dhruva and his successors, the Rashtrakutas expanded their empire beyond the Deccan region. They conquered vast territories in Central and Northern India, including parts of present-day Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. These conquests significantly increased their power and influence.
Skillful Leadership:
The Rashtrakuta dynasty had several skilled and visionary rulers who played a crucial role in their rise to power. Rulers like Dhruva, Govinda III, and Amoghavarsha were known for their administrative abilities, military strategies, and diplomatic acumen. Their leadership helped the dynasty grow and consolidate its power.
Question.
Who were the parties involved in the "Tripartite struggle"? ( NCERT
Answer.
The Tripartite Struggle, also known as the Tripartite Struggle for control over Kannauj, was a historical conflict that took place between the 8th and 10th centuries ( fought almost for 200 years).
It primarily involved three major powers of that time:
Pratihara Dynasty:
The Pratiharas were a powerful dynasty that ruled over a large part of northern and central India. They were centered in present-day Rajasthan and their capital was Kannauj.
The Pratiharas were initially the dominant force in the region and played a significant role in the Tripartite struggle.
Rashtrakuta Dynasty:
The Rashtrakutas were a dynasty that originated in the Deccan region of southern India. They expanded their influence and established their rule over a vast territory, including parts of present-day Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh. The Rashtrakutas wanted to expand their kingdom further north, and their conflict with the Pratiharas was a significant aspect of the Tripartite struggle.
Pala Dynasty:
The Palas were a dynasty that ruled over the Bengal and Bihar regions of eastern India. They had their capital in present-day Bengal and were known for their patronage of Buddhism and intellectual pursuits. The Palas also participated in the Tripartite struggle, mainly in their efforts to gain control over Kannauj and expand their influence.
These three powers, the Pratiharas, Rashtrakutas, and Palas, were the primary parties involved in the Tripartite struggle. They fought for control over the fertile and strategically important region of Kannauj, which was considered a significant power center during that time.
According to contemporary accounts, the Rashtrakutas had the best infantry, the Gurjara-Pratihara had the finest cavalry, and the Pala had the largest elephant force. In this tripartite struggle, the Pratihara defeated the Pala and Rashtrakuta.
In 1018, Ruler of Kannauj, Rajayapal Pratihara was sacked by Mahmood Ghazni. The empire broke into many independent Rajput states.
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