Question

Who was the court poet of Harshavardhana that recorded his achievements ?
A. Aryabhatta
B. Banabhatta
C. Kalidasa
D. Hieun Tsang

Answer 1

Hint: The Vardhana dynasty in the 6th and 7th century ruled over north India. Under the rule of Harshvardhana, his court became the centre of attraction and various scholars, poets and travellers wrote the history of peace and prosperity which developed.

Complete step by step answer: Vardhana Dynasty also known as the Pushyabhuti dynasty was famous for Harshvardhana who ruled North India from 606 to 648 CE. This dynasty reached to northwestern, Kampruypa in the east and Narmada river in the south. His style of work for the empire was praised by many scholars, poets, artists, religious visitors and travellers from other parts of Asia like Xuanzang. Being a devotee of Buddhism, he banned animal slaughter for food and built many monasteries but being a Shaivite he patronised scholars and poets of all religions. One of the famous Poet Bhanbhatta also known as Bana wrote the biography of Harshavardhana, Harshacharita in the Sanskrit language which was the first composition of him on deeds of Harsha whereas Xuanzang (Hieun Tsang) wrote a favourable account praising him for justice and generosity.

Looking at the option given:

Option A. Aryabhatta was the Mathematician and astronomer of India. This is an incorrect option.

Option B. Banabhatta was the Ashtana Kavi meaning court poet who has written the Harshacharita, a biography of Harshavardhana. This is the correct answer.

Option C. Kalidasa was an author, playwright and dramatist who wrote his work most likely before the 5th Century. This is an incorrect option.

Option D. Hieun Tsang was a Chinese Traveller. This is an incorrect option.

Note: Banabhatta and Hieun Tsang both wrote about Harshavardhana life and empire but the biography Harshacharita was written by Banabhatta only. Other than this, Xuanzang and Hieun Tsang both are names of the same person, so do not get confused while answering.