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Q.Who among the following rulers rebuilt the 'Sudarshan Lake' ? (A) Siri Satakarni (B) Sakasena (C) Siri Vijaya Satakarni (D) Rudradaman

CBSECBSE Class XII Board 2023MCQ· 1mImportance★★★★★
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Rudradaman I, a Western Satrap ruler, famously rebuilt the Sudarshan Lake in Saurashtra after it was damaged by a storm, as detailed in his Junagadh inscription.

The Sudarshan Lake, located near Girnar in Saurashtra (modern-day Gujarat), is a remarkable example of ancient Indian hydraulic engineering. Its history spans several centuries, involving multiple dynasties and rulers who either constructed it or undertook its repairs and rebuilding. Understanding its multi-generational history helps appreciate why different rulers are associated with it and why Rudradaman's contribution stands out. The lake was vital for irrigation and the prosperity of the region, making its maintenance a crucial responsibility for any ruler.

Here is a step-by-step explanation of the lake's history and the rulers involved:

  1. Original Construction: The Sudarshan Lake was originally constructed during the reign of Chandragupta Maurya (c. 322-298 BCE). His provincial governor in Saurashtra, Pushyagupta Vaishya, was responsible for its creation. This initial construction laid the foundation for a vital irrigation system that served the region for centuries.

  2. First Major Repair: Later, during the reign of Emperor Ashoka (c. 268-232 BCE), the lake underwent its first significant repair. Ashoka's Yavana (Greek) governor, Tushaspha, oversaw these repairs, ensuring the continued functionality of the lake.

  3. Rudradaman's Extensive Rebuilding: The most famous and extensively documented rebuilding effort was undertaken by the Western Satrap ruler, Rudradaman I (c. 130-150 CE). His Junagadh inscription (also known as the Girnar inscription), dated to 150 CE, provides detailed information about this event.

    • The inscription states that a terrible storm caused the lake's embankment to burst, leading to a massive outflow of water.
    • Rudradaman's ministers advised against rebuilding it, citing the immense cost and difficulty.
    • However, Rudradaman, demonstrating his commitment to his subjects' welfare, decided to rebuild the lake using his own treasury, without imposing any additional taxes (like kara, vishti, or pranaya) on his people. This act of benevolence and engineering prowess is a highlight of his reign. …

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