Question

Which of the following statements about the Mahasandhivigrahika during Gupta's rule is correct?

• A. He was the chief justice of the kingdom and presided over land disputes.
• B. He supervised irrigation works and public revenue collection.
• C. He acted as the foreign minister and collaborated closely with the king and military.
• D. He managed temple endowments and religious affairs.

Answer 1

Answer:

C. He acted as the foreign minister and collaborated closely with the king and military.

Role and Significance of Mahasandhivigrahika

• The Mahasandhivigrahika was a highly significant ministerial position during the Gupta Empire, specifically responsible for managing matters of war and peace.
• The term is derived from three Sanskrit words: Maha (Great), Sandhi (Peace or Alliance), and Vigraha (War), indicating the officer's critical role in diplomatic affairs.
• Key Functions: The officer served as the Chief Minister or Minister of External Affairs. They were responsible for drafting royal decrees, managing diplomatic correspondences, and advising the King on military strategy and alliances with neighboring kingdoms.
• Historical Context: The title gained prominence during the reign of Samudragupta. Harisena, the court poet of Samudragupta who composed the Prayag Prashasti (Allahabad Pillar Inscription), held the title of Mahasandhivigrahika, demonstrating that the position was often occupied by highly educated, influential scholars or administrators.
• Governance Structure: The Gupta administrative system was decentralized, yet it maintained a robust bureaucracy. Officials like the Mahasandhivigrahika operated directly under the King, highlighting the importance of foreign policy in maintaining the vast Gupta territorial expanse.
• Distinction: While lower-ranking officials might handle routine administration, the Mahasandhivigrahika dealt with high-level imperial policy, making them one of the most powerful figures in the imperial court hierarchy.