Which one of the following was NOT a way in which kings in ancient India attempted to claim a higher status ?
- A.Identifying with a variety of deities
- B.Assuming pompous titles
- C.Imposing high taxes
- D.Conquests and annexation of territories
Correct answer
Explanation
The correct answer is C, imposing high taxes. Taxes were a source of revenue for running the state, not a means of claiming exalted status.
Ancient Indian kings used several devices to raise their standing. Kushana rulers called themselves devaputra, son of god, and many dynasties linked themselves with Vishnu, Shiva or other deities. Grand titles were common: maharajadhiraja (great king of kings) and parama-bhattaraka were used by the Guptas. Victories were celebrated in inscriptions, such as the Allahabad pillar prashasti of Samudragupta, and in rituals like the ashvamedha sacrifice. Heavy taxation, on the other hand, made a ruler unpopular rather than more glorious.
A is wrong because identifying with deities was a common way to claim divine status.
B is wrong because pompous titles were used precisely to proclaim higher rank.
D is wrong because conquest and annexation, recorded in prashastis, displayed a king's power.
Exam tip: divine claims, grand titles and conquests raised status; taxes only funded the state.
Practice Questions
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