Which Rashtrakuta king defeated Parantaka I of the Chola dynasty?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is option 3 i.e. Krishna III.
Krishna III (939–967 CE), the last great warrior king of the Rashtrakuta Dynasty, famously defeated the Chola King Parantaka I in the landmark Battle of Takkolam in 949 CE. Aided by his Western Ganga ally, Butuga II, Krishna III’s forces killed the Chola crown prince Rajaditya on the battlefield. This decisive victory led to the Rashtrakuta occupation of northern Chola territories, including Tondaimandalam, and effectively halted Chola expansion for several decades, marking the zenith of Rashtrakuta power in South India.
Analysis of Other Options:
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Krishna I: Known for constructing the monolithic Kailasa Temple at Ellora, his reign focused on consolidating power rather than fighting the Cholas.
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Dantidurga: The founder of the Rashtrakuta Empire, he overthrew the Chalukyas of Badami long before the Chola-Rashtrakuta conflicts began.
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Govinda III: One of the most powerful Rashtrakuta rulers, he is famous for his successful campaigns in Northern India and against the Pallavas.