Question

Which of the following correctly describes the Sarthavaha in Gupta dynasty's administration?

• A. Chief artisan overseeing temples and sculpture guilds.
• B. Officer-in-charge of military recruitment,
• C. Head of the trading guilds representing various trading communities.
• D. Official supervising irrigation and waterworks.

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Head of the trading guilds representing various trading communities.

• The Sarthavaha was an essential administrative and economic official in the Gupta Empire, primarily functioning as the leader or chief of the Sartha, which refers to a caravan of merchants.

• In the context of the Gupta administrative structure, they served as the representative of trading guilds (Shreni) and played a crucial role in managing long-distance trade routes.

• They acted as a bridge between the central administration and the mercantile communities, ensuring that trade policies were implemented and that merchant interests were protected.