Question 1

Who was the founder of the Pala Dynasty in Bihar and Bengal?

Accepted Answer

Gopala. Gopala is considered the founder of the Pala Dynasty. He was elected by the people to end a period of political anarchy known as 'Matsyanyaya'. He established peace and laid the foundation for the Pala empire's dominance in Eastern India.

Question 2

Which copper plate inscription provides detailed information about the Pala ruler Dharmapala?

Accepted Answer

Khalimpur Copper Plate. The Khalimpur Copper Plate is a key source of information regarding Dharmapala. It describes his military conquests and his title as 'Uttarapathasvamin' (Lord of the North). This inscription is vital for understanding the extent of the Pala empire.

Question 3

Which Pala king granted five villages to the Nalanda University at the request of the King of Java?

Accepted Answer

Devapala. King Devapala granted five villages for the maintenance of a monastery at Nalanda. This request was made by Balaputradeva, the Shailendra king of Suvarnadvipa (Java). This event highlights the strong diplomatic and cultural ties between Bihar and Southeast Asia.

Question 4

The 'Ramacharitam', a biography of a Pala king, was written by which poet?

Accepted Answer

Sandhyakar Nandi. Sandhyakar Nandi wrote the 'Ramacharitam' in Sanskrit. It details the life and achievements of the Pala king Ramapala. The text also provides insights into the Kaivarta rebellion in Varendra.

Question 5

Who led the first successful Turkish invasion of Bihar in the late 12th century?

Accepted Answer

Bakhtiyar Khilji. Ikhtiyaruddin Muhammad bin Bakhtiyar Khilji led the invasion of Bihar around 1198-1200 AD. He is responsible for the destruction of major monastic universities like Odantapuri and Nalanda. This event marked the beginning of Muslim rule in the region.

Medieval History — Set 1