1. Who founded the Gupta Empire, and how did it rise to prominence?
Answer:
The Gupta Empire was founded by Chandragupta I around 319 CE. He established the empire by marrying Kumaradevi, a Lichchhavi princess, which strengthened his political power. The strategic alliances and consolidation of smaller kingdoms paved the way for the empire’s rise. Chandragupta I assumed the title Maharajadhiraja and expanded his territories significantly.
2. Why is the Gupta Age considered the Golden Age of Ancient India?
Answer:
The Gupta Age is termed the Golden Age because of:
- Political Stability: Strong centralized administration under rulers like Chandragupta I, Samudragupta, and Chandragupta II.
- Cultural Advancements: Flourishing literature, art, and architecture, including works of Kalidasa.
- Scientific Progress: Contributions in astronomy, mathematics (introduction of the decimal system), and medicine.
- Economic Prosperity: Trade, agriculture, and the issuance of gold coins highlighted economic strength.
3. Discuss Samudragupta’s achievements and his portrayal as the “Napoleon of India.”
Answer:
Military Conquests: Samudragupta (r. 335–375 CE) conducted extensive campaigns across India, subduing kingdoms in the north and south. His victories are inscribed on the Allahabad Pillar, written by Harisena.
Cultural Patronage: He promoted music, poetry, and religion, earning him the title Kaviraja (king of poets).
The comparison to Napoleon stems from his military genius and the sheer scale of his conquests.
4. Explain the role of Chandragupta II in the expansion of the Gupta Empire.
Answer:
Chandragupta II (r. 380–415 CE), also known as Vikramaditya, expanded the empire through:
- Military Success: Defeating the Shaka rulers of western India and annexing their territories.
- Diplomatic Alliances: Strengthened ties through matrimonial alliances.
- Cultural Achievements: His reign marked the peak of Gupta art, literature, and science.
5. Describe the significance of the Allahabad Pillar inscription.
Answer:
The Allahabad Pillar inscription, composed by Harisena, details Samudragupta’s conquests, administrative policies, and personal attributes. It is an important primary source for understanding the political and military strategies of the Gupta Empire.
6. What were the main features of Gupta administration?
Answer:
- Decentralized Governance: Local rulers were allowed autonomy but paid tribute to the emperor.
- Efficient Bureaucracy: Administrative divisions like provinces (bhuktis) and districts (vishayas).
- Revenue System: Primarily dependent on land revenue, with efficient tax collection mechanisms.
- Judicial System: Emphasis on dharma and adherence to traditional laws.
7. Discuss the Gupta Empire’s contributions to art and architecture.
Answer:
- Sculpture: Stone and metal sculptures of deities like Vishnu and Shiva, reflecting spiritual depth.
- Architecture: Development of the Nagara style of temple architecture, with examples like the Dashavatara Temple at Deogarh.
- Painting: Murals in the Ajanta caves depicting Buddhist themes and daily life.
8. Highlight the literary achievements of the Gupta Age.
Answer:
- Kalidasa: Authored masterpieces like Shakuntala, Meghaduta, and Raghuvamsa.
- Vishnu Sharma: Composed the Panchatantra.
- Sanskrit Literature: Flourished with classical works that influenced future generations.
- Religious Texts: Puranas and other Hindu scriptures were compiled.
9. What advancements in science and mathematics occurred during the Gupta period?
Answer:
- Aryabhata: Introduced the concept of zero, decimals, and trigonometry. His work Aryabhatiya laid the foundation for modern astronomy.
- Medicine: Texts like Sushruta Samhita advanced surgical techniques.
- Astronomy: Accurate calculations of planetary movements and eclipses.
10. Explain the economic prosperity of the Gupta Empire.
Answer:
- Agriculture: The primary occupation, supported by an efficient irrigation system.
- Trade: Internal and external trade with regions like Southeast Asia and the Mediterranean.
- Coinage: Issuance of gold and silver coins reflecting economic strength.
11. How did Hinduism evolve during the Gupta Age?
Answer:
Hinduism saw the resurgence of Vaishnavism and Shaivism, with increased emphasis on temple worship. The compilation of Puranas and promotion of rituals solidified the religion’s structure.
12. What role did Buddhism and Jainism play during the Gupta Age?
Answer:
Though Hinduism dominated, Buddhism and Jainism were also patronized.
- Buddhism: Fa-Hien noted the prevalence of Buddhist monasteries.
- Jainism: Continued to flourish in western and southern India.
13. Discuss the role of women during the Gupta period.
Answer:
- Education: Restricted to elite families, though women like queens wielded influence in court politics.
- Social Structure: Patriarchy dominated, but literary works occasionally depicted empowered women.
14. How did Fa-Hien describe Indian society during the Gupta Age?
Answer:
Fa-Hien praised:
- Social Harmony: Minimal crime and adherence to dharma.
- Economic Prosperity: Abundance of resources and thriving trade.
- Buddhist Practices: Widespread but declining influence in comparison to Hinduism.
15. What led to the decline of the Gupta Empire?
Answer:
- Hun Invasions: Continuous attacks weakened the empire.
- Decentralization: Provincial governors gained autonomy.
- Economic Decline: Wars and invasions drained resources.
16. Compare the Gupta Empire with the Maurya Empire.
Answer:
- Administration: Mauryas had a centralized administration, while Guptas were decentralized.
- Religious Policies: Mauryas promoted Buddhism, whereas Guptas were predominantly Hindu.
- Economy: Both relied on agriculture but the Gupta Empire also excelled in trade.
17. Describe the Gupta coinage and its significance.
Answer:
Gupta coins, primarily in gold, depicted rulers, deities, and cultural motifs. They symbolize the economic prosperity and artistic excellence of the period.
18. What is the significance of Nalanda University in the Gupta period?
Answer:
Nalanda University became a global center for education and attracted scholars from as far as China and Persia. It taught diverse subjects, including Buddhist philosophy, mathematics, and medicine.
19. Discuss the Gupta Empire’s military strategies.
Answer:
- Cavalry and Elephants: Used extensively in warfare.
- Fortifications: Strengthened defenses in key cities.
- Diplomatic Alliances: Reduced the need for constant warfare.
