Question

Who was the founder of Kalyani Chalukyas?
A. Krishnadevaraya
B. Rajendra I
C. Mahendra II
D. Tailapa II

Answer 1

Hint: The Chalukyas of Badami were destroyed by Dantidurga and were revived in around 972-73AD. These were known as Chalukyas of Kalyani. They are said to belong to the same genealogy as those of the previous Chalukyas.

Complete answer: The Chalukya of Kalyani was established by Tailapa-II. He was one of the feudatories of the Rashtrakuta. They remained in disagreement with the Cholas and also the Chalukyas of Vengi for more than 200 years. The empire of Chalukyas of Kalyani is also known as the Western Chalukya Empire. This empire has made major contributions to modern Kannada and Sanskrit literature. Taila II or Tailapa II killed the last ruler of Rashtrakuta Dynasty Kakka II in 973 AD. Thus, Taila II founded the dynasty of Chalukyas of Kalyani which continued for almost 2 centuries. Tailapa-II restored the family of his ancestors to its former glory by establishing the empire. He reigned for 24 years. During his regime, he was able to recover the ancient territories of his ancestors except for the Gujarat region. Because of his interest in the Kannada language, he patronized a Kannada poet Ranna.
Therefore, the correct option is “D”.

Note: Ranna was one of the earliest poets of Kannada language. Ranna, Adikavi Pampa and Sri Ponna are generally called as “three gems of Kannada literature”.