Question

Identify the ancient rulers of India from the given options using the provided information.

• They belonged to important ruling lineage.
• They were the immediate successors of the Mauryas.
• They were Brahmanas.

• A. Mauryas and Gupta
• B. Nandas and Cholas
• C. Satavahanas and Kushanas
• D. Shungas and Kanvas

Hint:

When studying ancient Indian history, focus on the succession of dynasties, as many rulers were Brahmanas who established their reign after the decline of earlier powerful empires like the Mauryas.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The rulers described in the question were part of the important ruling lineage, immediately succeeding the Mauryas and belonging to the Brahmana class. This best matches the Shungas and Kanvas.
1. Shungas and Kanvas:
The Shunga dynasty was established by Pushyamitra Shunga, a Brahmana general of the Maurya Empire, after the assassination of the last Mauryan ruler, Brihadratha. The Shungas were immediately followed by the Kanva dynasty, also known for being Brahmanas who took control after the decline of the Shungas.
2. Other Options:
- Option (A): The Mauryas and Guptas were prominent dynasties, but they do not fit the description of being immediate successors of the Mauryas and Brahmanas. - Option (B): The Nandas and Cholas were earlier or unrelated dynasties, and they do not match the criteria of being Brahmanas or direct successors of the Mauryas. - Option (C): The Satavahanas and Kushanas were significant dynasties but were not Brahmanas or immediate successors of the Mauryas.
Conclusion:
Thus, the rulers that best fit the description are the Shungas and Kanvas.