From the decline of Guptas until the rise of Harshavardhana in the early seventh century, which of the following kingdoms were holding power in Northern India?

1. The Guptas of Magadha
2. The Paramaras of Malwa
3. The Pushyabhutis of Thanesar
4. The Maukharis of Kanauj
5. The Yadavas of Devagiri
6. The Maitrakas of Valabhi

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2021 Prelims]

(a) 1, 2 and 5 only

(b) 1, 3, 4 and 6 only

(c) 2, 3 and 4 only

(d) 5 and 6 only

Answer: (b)

Explanation:

• Statement 1: Following the decline of the Guptas, the Later Guptas assumed power in Magadha during the early seventh century, thus ruling over parts of northern India, including Magadha (present-day Bihar). Therefore, statement 1 is accurate.
• Statement 2: The Paramara dynasty governed the western and central regions of India, particularly Malwa, from the 9th to the 14th century AD until they were conquered by the rulers of the Delhi Sultanate. Therefore, statement 2 is incorrect.
• Statement 3: The Pushyabhutis of Thanesar, located in present-day Haryana, held control over various parts of Northern India during the 6th and 7th centuries AD. Consequently, statement 3 is correct.
• Statement 4: The Maukharis dynasty ruled over portions of Uttar Pradesh and Magadha, including Kannauj. Their reign lasted until approximately 606 AD when they were reconquered by the Later Guptas. Thus, statement 4 is correct.
• Statement 5: The Yadavas of Devagiri governed the western regions of India from approximately 1187 to 1317 AD. Therefore, statement 5 is incorrect.
• Statement 6: The Maitrakas of Valabhi held dominion over the western and northern areas of present-day Gujarat from the late 5th century to the late 8th century AD. Accordingly, statement 6 is correct.

Therefore. Option (b) is the correct answer.