Ancient and Medieval Indian Rulers

The 'Navaratnas' (Nine Gems) were a group of nine scholars who adorned the court of the Gupta emperor Chandragupta II, also known as Vikramaditya.

In his edicts and inscriptions, Ashoka is frequently referred to as 'Devanam Priyadarshi', which translates to 'Beloved of the Gods'.

Menander I (known as Milinda in Buddhist texts, misspelled here as Minandar) was an Indo-Greek king who ruled a large empire in the northwestern Indian subcontinent. He converted to Buddhism after a famous dialogue with the sage Nagasena, recorded in the text 'Milinda Panha'. The other options represent different historical rulers.

The Panchatantra is a collection of ancient Indian animal fables, traditionally attributed to Vishnu Sharma and composed during the Gupta period.

Aryabhatta and Varahamihira were prominent scientists and astronomers who flourished during the Gupta period, which was a time of significant advancement in science and mathematics.

The Pandya dynasty, which ruled parts of South India, had their capital at Madurai.

Harshavardhana was a powerful ruler of Northern India in the 7th century. He shifted his capital from Thanesar to the more central and strategic city of Kannauj.

The Gupta period is often referred to as the Golden Age of India, characterized by significant advancements in art, science, and architecture, including the development of temple architecture.

Among the options, the Nanda dynasty (c. 345-321 BCE) preceded the Mauryas (c. 321-185 BCE). The Guptas and Pallavas came much later.

Ashoka (Maurya dynasty) reigned in the 3rd century BCE. Milinda (Menander I, Indo-Greek) reigned in the 2nd century BCE. Kanishka (Kushan dynasty) reigned in the 1st or 2nd century CE. Thus, the order is Ashoka, Milinda, Kanishka.

The Malwa region in central India corresponds to the ancient kingdom of Avanti and was controlled by the Mauryas and Guptas.

The Satavahana dynasty established their power in the Deccan region, with their capital at Pratishthana (modern Paithan). However, Amaravati is also a major center associated with their art and patronage.

Correct Answer: All the above