Question
Who among the following rulers in ancient India had assumed the titles 'Mattavilasa', 'Vichitrachitta' and 'Gunabhara'?
AMahendravarman I
BSimhavishnu
CNarasimhavarman I
DSimhavarman
Correct Answer: A
Explanation
The
titles ‘Mattavilasa’, ‘Vichitrachitta’ and ‘Gunabhara’ are associated with
Mahendravarman I, a prominent ruler of the
Pallava dynasty (c. 600–630 CE).
Mahendravarman I was not just a king but also a
scholar, playwright, and patron of arts. His title
‘Vichitrachitta’ reflects his
curious and creative mind, while
‘Gunabhara’ signifies that he was
full of virtues. The title
‘Mattavilasa’ is also linked to his famous Sanskrit play
“Mattavilasa Prahasana”, which satirizes religious practices of the time.
His reign marks an important phase in South Indian history, especially due to the beginning of
rock-cut temple architecture in places like
Mahabalipuram and
Kanchipuram.
Thus, these culturally rich and artistic titles clearly point to
Mahendravarman I.