Which of the following kingdoms was not a part of the Tripartite Struggle that took place in India during the 8^th - 10^th centuries CE?

The correct answer is Maurya.

Key Points

• The Tripartite Struggle involved three major dynasties: the Pratihara, the Rashtrakuta, and the Pala.
• This struggle was primarily over the control of the fertile region of Kannauj in North India.
• The Maurya dynasty, which is listed as an option, was not a part of this struggle as it had declined much earlier, around the 2nd century BCE.
• The struggle took place roughly between the 8th and 10th centuries CE.
• The Pratihara, Rashtrakuta, and Pala dynasties were contemporaneous powers vying for supremacy during this period.

Additional Information

• Pratihara Dynasty
  • Also known as the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty, they ruled much of Northern India from the mid-8th to the 11th century CE.
  • Their capital was initially at Ujjain, later moved to Kannauj.
  • They were known for their military prowess and resistance against Arab invasions.
• Rashtrakuta Dynasty
  • Originated in the Deccan region and ruled large parts of South and Central India between the 6th and 10th centuries CE.
  • They were noted for their patronage of art and architecture, including the rock-cut temples at Ellora.
  • Their capital was at Manyakheta (modern-day Malkhed in Karnataka).
• Pala Dynasty
  • Ruled the Eastern regions of the Indian subcontinent, mainly Bihar and Bengal, from the 8th to the 12th century CE.
  • Known for their support of Buddhism and the establishment of the famous Vikramashila and Nalanda universities.
  • Their founder was Gopala, and their capital was at Pataliputra (modern-day Patna).
• Maurya Dynasty
  • One of the largest empires in ancient India, founded by Chandragupta Maurya in 322 BCE.
  • Their most famous ruler was Ashoka the Great, who played a significant role in the spread of Buddhism.
  • The Maurya Empire declined after the death of Ashoka and had completely dissolved by the 2nd century BCE.