The question asks for the capital of Harshavardhana's empire in the 7th century CE. This requires knowledge of ancient Indian history, specifically the reign of Harshavardhana.
B) Kannauj — Harshavardhana shifted his capital from Thaneswar to Kannauj, making it the central seat of his vast empire during the 7th century CE.
The question asks for the end year of Harshavardhana's reign, given that he started ruling in 606 AD. This requires knowledge of the specific historical timeline of the Pushyabhuti dynasty and Harshavardhana's rule.
A) 647 AD is the correct answer. Harshavardhana ruled from 606 AD until 647 AD, making his reign last for 41 years.
The question asks to identify the ruler of the Gauda kingdom against whom King Harshavardhana declared war. This requires knowledge of the political history of ancient India, specifically the post-Gupta period and the reign of Harshavardhana.
D) King Shashanka — King Shashanka was the powerful ruler of the Gauda kingdom (Bengal region) and a contemporary of Harshavardhana. He was responsible for the murder of Harshavardhana's elder brother, Rajyavardhana, and his brother-in-law, Grahavarman. This act provoked Harshavardhana to declare war on Shashanka, marking a significant conflict in early medieval Indian history.
The question asks about a significant historical event involving the defeat of Harshavardhana, a prominent ruler of ancient India. To answer this, one needs to recall key battles and rivalries during his reign.
C) Pulikesi II — Pulakesin II, the Chalukya king, famously defeated Harshavardhana on the banks of the Narmada River, preventing his southward expansion. This event is a significant landmark in ancient Indian history.
The question asks for the Pushyabhuti dynasty ruler who was also known as Sakalottarapathanatha. This requires knowledge of the epithets and titles associated with prominent rulers of ancient India, particularly from the Post-Gupta period.
Correct Option: A) Harshavardhana was a powerful ruler of the Pushyabhuti dynasty who reigned from 606 to 647 CE. He is widely known for his military conquests, administrative reforms, and patronage of art and literature. The title "Sakalottarapathanatha" (Lord of the entire North) is specifically associated with him, reflecting his extensive control over northern India.
The question asks to identify the 'Asthana Kavi' (court poet) of King Harshavardhana. This requires knowledge of prominent figures associated with the court of Harshavardhana, a significant ruler of ancient India.
Correct Option: C) Banabhatta was the 'Asthana Kavi' (court poet) in the court of King Harshavardhana. He is famous for his biographies and literary works, most notably 'Harshacharita', which details the life and times of Harshavardhana.