Who was the founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Answer — Dantidurga.
Explanation —
The Rashtrakuta dynasty was founded by Dantidurga in 752 CE. By defeating the Chalukya ruler Kirtivarman II, he laid the foundation of an independent kingdom. He performed a religious ritual known as 'Hiranyagarbha' (the Great Gift), which was believed to result in the performer being 'reborn' as a Kshatriya, even if they were not one by birth. The Rashtrakutas established Manyakhet (Malkhed) as their capital. The Rashtrakuta rulers were great patrons of art and literature. They commissioned the construction of the famous Kailasa Temple at Ellora.
Additional Points —
Amoghavarsha: The most renowned ruler of this dynasty, who authored the Kannada literary work titled 'Kavirajamarga'.
Krishna I: It was he who commissioned the construction of the famous rock-cut Kailasa Temple at Ellora.
Krishna III: The last great ruler of the Rashtrakuta dynasty, who defeated the Cholas in the Battle of Takkolam.
Potential Exam Questions and Answers —
Question: What was the capital of the Rashtrakutas?
Answer: Manyakhet (modern-day Karnataka).
Question: Which is the most famous temple associated with the Rashtrakutas within the Ellora Caves?
Answer: The Kailasa Temple (Cave No. 16).