Question

The Rudradaman Inscription states that a dam was built on the Sudarsan lake to facilitate water supply to the neighbouring countryside during the reign of:

• A. Pushyamitra Shunga
• B. Kanishka
• C. Chandragupta Maurya
• D. Pulakeshin II

Hint:

Always cross-check historical timelines and specific references when dealing with ancient inscriptions to ensure accurate identification of rulers and their achievements.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Concept
The Rudradaman Inscription is a significant historical document from ancient India, providing insights into the governance and infrastructure projects during the reign of King Rudradaman I of the Satavahana dynasty.

Step 2: Meaning
The inscription mentions that King Rudradaman constructed a dam on the Sudarsan lake to ensure water supply for the surrounding areas. This project highlights the engineering skills and administrative capabilities of the Satavahanas in managing natural resources.

Step 3: Analysis
The question focuses on identifying the ruler who initiated the construction of a dam on the Sudarsan lake. King Rudradaman I is known from historical records as an active builder of dams, including one at Pratishthana (modern Paithan) and another on the Sudarsan lake. Pushyamitra Shunga ruled during the 2nd century BCE, long before the Satavahanas. Kanishka was a Kushan emperor who reigned in the early 2nd century CE, centuries after Rudradaman I. Pulakeshin II was an early Chalukya king who lived in the 7th century CE. Given these historical timelines and the specific mention of Rudradaman I's dam construction in the Rudradaman Inscription, it is clear that the correct answer is C) Chandragupta Maurya. However, this option is incorrect as the question specifically refers to Rudradaman I from the Satavahana dynasty.

Step 4: Conclusion
The provided options include a historical figure (Chandragupta Maurya) who lived much earlier than the time of Rudradaman I. The correct ruler based on the information in the Rudradaman Inscription is not listed among the given choices, but historically it should be King Rudradaman I. Final Answer: (C)