Question

Name the great Hindu King who combined in himself the qualities of Samudragupta and Ashoka?
A. Kanishka
B. Chandragupta I
C. Chandragupta II
D. Harshavardhana

Answer 1

Hint:As we know that, one of the 7th Century's most significant Indian emperors was Harshavardhana. Harshavardhana's territory stretched from north India to the Narmada River in central India at the height of his rule. His reign was famed for harmony, security and development, and drew from far and large many artists and scholars.

Complete answer:
 Harshavardhana became the most powerful emperor of the Pushyabhuti dynasty, reigning from 606 to 647 CE, until he was defeated by Pulakeshin II, a South Indian king. From 606 to 647 CE, Harshavardhana ruled over the whole of North India. It is said that the kingdom of Harshavardhana reminded many of the great Gupta Empire, as its government was close to that of the Gupta Empire's administration. Harshavardhana has been portrayed in several texts as a noble emperor who made sure that all his subjects remained content. He did not place high taxation on his country, and there was some self-sufficiency in the economy. Many writers, poets, religious leaders and scholars migrated from far and wide to his capital, Kannauj (now Uttar Pradesh). He retained cordial relations with the Chinese as well. He also sent a delegation to China from India, creating a diplomatic relationship between India and China. Xuanzang, the famous Chinese monk and explorer, spent 8 years in his kingdom. He documented his impressions later and also lauded Harshavardhana for the manner in which he governed his kingdom. King Harshavardhana left for the Holy Abode in the year 647 CE after reigning over most parts of North India for more than 40 years. Since he has no heirs, his kingdom failed and quickly disintegrated into tiny states. King Harshavardhana's death marked the culmination of the mighty dynasty of Vardhana.

Hence, the correct answer is option (D).

Note:Harshavardhana's death is not well known. He is said to have married Durgavati and had two sons, named Vagyavardhana and Kalyanvardhana, respectively. The tale goes that they were murdered right before the death of Harsha himself by a minister of his court. Therefore, without any successor, Harsha died.