Question

What was the capital of the early Chalukyas?
A. Badami
B. Kalyani
C. Kanchi
D. Vengi

Answer 1

Hint: The Chalukya dynasty ruled large parts of Southern India . The dynasty ruled from the 6th to 12th century.

Complete answer: The Chalukya dynasty was ruled as three related empires yet as individuals. The first and earliest dynasty was called ‘Badami Chalukyas’ and their capital was Badami as the name suggests. During the decline of the Kadamba Kingdom, the Chalukya dynasty under Pulakeshin II rose to significance. After his death, the eastern Chalukyas became an independent kingdom in the Deccan region. Until the end of the 12th century, the western Chalukyas ruled from Kalyani.
The reign of the Chalukya dynasty has been referred to as the Golden age of Karnataka. The Chaukyas of Badami expanded their rule throughout the entire Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh in the Deccan region. Pulakeshin II was the most important emperor of the Badami dynasty. The Badami empire lost its significance after the death of Pulakeshin II. It was then captured and ruled by the Pallavas for thirteen years. Vikramaditya I revived the Badami dynasty once again by defeating the Pallavas. He assumed the title of ‘Rajamalla’. Vikramaditya was succeeded by his son Vijayaditya whose rule marked a great prosperity for the Badami kingdom. It is known for the building of temples.

Thus, Option A is the right answer.

Note: The last king of the badami Chalukya emperor was King Kirtivarman II. He was overthrown by Dantidurga the Rashtrakuta king in 753. The Chalukyas during their peak period ruled from Narmada in the North to Kaveri in the South.