Question

Which title did the Kushana rulers use before their names?

• A. Devaputra
• B. Swargaputra
• C. Devaraja
• D. Vikramaditya

Hint:

Remember: Kushanas = Devaputra, Guptas (Chandragupta II) = Vikramaditya, Harshavardhana = Pushyabhuti dynasty titles. Linking rulers with their titles helps in quick recall.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Historical context of Kushanas.
The Kushanas were Central Asian rulers who established their empire in North-Western India during the 1st–3rd centuries CE. Their most famous ruler was Kanishka.
Step 2: Meaning of the title “Devaputra.”
The Kushana kings adopted the title Devaputra, which means “Son of God.” This title was influenced by Central Asian and Chinese traditions, where kings often claimed divine descent to legitimize their authority.
Step 3: Analyze the given options.
- (A) Devaputra: Correct. This was the title of Kushana rulers, signifying their divine status.
- (B) Swargaputra: No historical evidence of this title among Kushanas.
- (C) Devaraja: Associated with later Southeast Asian kingdoms, not Kushanas.
- (D) Vikramaditya: Title used by some Gupta rulers, not Kushanas.
Step 4: Conclusion.
The Kushana rulers proudly used the title Devaputra to emphasize their divine legitimacy and authority.