Question

What was the period of Shaka king Rudradaman who renovated the Sudarshana lake?

• A. First Century AD
• B. Second Century AD
• C. Third Century AD
• D. Fourth Century AD

Hint:

Remember: Rudradaman I (Western Kshatrapas) is known for the Junagadh inscription in Sanskrit, 2nd century AD.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Identify the ruler.
Rudradaman I was one of the most famous rulers of the Western Kshatrapas (Shaka dynasty). His rule is significant for the Junagadh inscription that records the repair of the Sudarshana lake in Gujarat.
Step 2: Historical context.
The Sudarshana lake, originally constructed during the Mauryan period, had broken down due to floods. Rudradaman I carried out repairs in the 2nd century AD and issued the Junagadh inscription in Sanskrit.
Step 3: Elimination of options.
- (A) First Century AD: Too early, not correct.
- (B) Second Century AD: Correct, the time of Rudradaman I.
- (C) Third Century AD: Later than Rudradaman’s reign.
- (D) Fourth Century AD: Also too late.
Conclusion: Rudradaman belonged to the Second Century AD.