Question

Which of the following about Rudradaman is/are correct?

1. He is known for Junagadh inscription.
2. He undertook the restoration of a reservoir called Sudarshana lake.
3. He defeated the Satkarni ruler Gautamiputra.
4. He married his daughter to Gautamiputra's son, Vashishthiputra Pulumavi.

• A. ii only
• B. i only
• C. All of these
• D. iii only

Answer 1

Answer:

C. All of these

Rudradaman I: A Prominent Western Kshatrapa Ruler

• The Junagadh Inscription (Girnar Inscription)

  • Rudradaman I is primarily known from his Junagadh Inscription (also referred to as the Girnar rock inscription), located in Saurashtra, Gujarat.

  • This inscription, dated to 150 CE, is historically significant as it is one of the earliest extensive inscriptions composed in pure Sanskrit prose, marking a notable development in classical Sanskrit literature.

  • It serves as a crucial primary source, detailing his military conquests, administrative reforms, and major public works.

• Restoration of Sudarshana Lake

  • The Junagadh inscription explicitly highlights Rudradaman's remarkable undertaking of the restoration of the Sudarshana Lake.

  • This ancient artificial reservoir had a long history, originally built during the reign of Chandragupta Maurya (by his governor Pushyagupta Vaishya) and subsequently improved by Emperor Ashoka (through his governor Tushaspha).

  • Rudradaman I personally financed the extensive repairs from his own treasury, refusing to impose additional taxes or resort to forced labor (vishti), even against the advice of his ministers, demonstrating his commitment to public welfare.

• Relationship with the Satavahanas

  • Rudradaman I engaged in a complex and often conflicting relationship with the contemporary Satavahana dynasty.

  • He defeated the Satavahana ruler Vashishthiputra Pulumavi (son of Gautamiputra Satakarni) at least twice in battle. However, he spared Pulumavi due to a significant matrimonial alliance between their families.

  • This alliance involved Rudradaman I marrying his own daughter to Vashishthiputra Pulumavi, solidifying diplomatic ties despite military conflicts.

• Other Noteworthy Facts about Rudradaman I

  • He belonged to the Western Kshatrapa (Saka) dynasty, which controlled significant parts of western India.

  • His empire extended over regions including Malwa, Gujarat, Konkan, and parts of Rajasthan.

  • Rudradaman I was known as a great patron of the Sanskrit language and literature, contributing to its flourishing during his reign.

  • His rule is generally considered a period of significant prosperity and cultural growth for the Western Kshatrapas.