Consider the following pairs:

How many pairs given above are correctly matched?

1. Only one pair
2. Only two pairs
3. Only three pairs
4. All four pairs

Explanation

Pair 1 is correct

• The Chandella dynasty initially served as feudatories of the Gurjara-Pratiharas of Kannauj and were engaged in conflicts with the Pratiharas, the Pala dynasty, and the Kalachuris of Chedi to their south. The dynasty was founded in the early 9th century CE by Nannuka (c. 831–845 CE), who ruled a small kingdom and established his capital at Khajuraho (Kharjjuravahaka). The Chandellas later gained prominence for their remarkable contributions to art and architecture, especially the fully developed Nagara-style temples at Khajuraho. Notable examples include the Lakshmana Temple Khajuraho built during the reign of Yashovarman (c. 930–950 CE), the Vishvanatha Temple Khajuraho constructed under Dhanga (c. 999–1002 CE), and the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple Khajuraho erected during the reign of Vidyadhara (c. 1030 CE).

Pair 2 is incorrect

• Jaishakti (c. 865−885 CE), was a Chandela king, not a Parmara king.

Pair 3 is correct

• The Gurjara-Pratiharas, also known as the Pratiharas, originated from the Gurjaras—primarily pastoralists and warriors. Their name is linked to the epic hero Lakshmana, who served as the doorkeeper (pratihara) to his brother Rama, from which the dynasty derived its title. The dynasty was founded by a Brahmana, Harichandra, in the region around Jodhpur in southwestern Rajasthan. The Gurjara-Pratiharas played a crucial role in resisting Arab expansion east of the Indus. Prominent rulers included Nagabhata I, Nagabhata II (c. 800–833 CE), Mihir Bhoja, and Mahendrapala I. By the 11th century CE, the dynasty declined and was displaced by the Ghaznavids. Their territories were subsequently taken over by regional powers such as the Chahamanas in Rajputana, the Chaulukyas in Gujarat, and the Paramaras in Malwa.

Piar 4 is incorrect

• Bhoja I / Mihir Bhoja (c.836−885 CE) Grandson of Nagabhatta II, who had a long reign of over 46 years and proved to be the most successful and popular ruler of Pratiharas. In the early years of his reign he was defeated by the Palas, Rashtrakutas and the Kalachuris, but he subsequently made a comeback. With the aid of feudatories such as the Chedis and the Guhilas, he won victories over the Palas and the Rashtrakutas. He had his capital at Kannauj, which was also called Mahodaya.

Answer: (b) Only two pairs; Difficulty Level: Hard