WBCS.LIVE practice question

Who among the following usurped power in Kanyakubja after the death of Harshavardhana?

Solve this multiple-choice question and check the correct answer with its explanation below.

Answer options

  1. Adityasena
  2. Arunashva
  3. Shashanka
  4. Lalitaditya

Correct answer and explanation

Correct answer: Arunashva

Explanation: The correct answer is B. Arunashva. After the death of Harshavardhana (c. 647 CE), his empire declined and no direct heir succeeded him. This led to political instability in Kanyakubja (modern Kannauj). During this period, Arunashva, a local chief, took control of the region. However, his rule was short-lived as he was soon defeated by Yuan Chwang’s (Xuanzang’s) account mentions that Arunashva rebelled and tried to seize power, which was suppressed.