With reference to the social order during the Satavahana period, consider the following statements:

1. The Satavahanas show traces of a matrilineal social structure, indicating that mothers enjoyed much importance in society, unlike the North Indian kingdoms.
2. They were the first rulers to make land grants (tax-free lands) to the Brahmanas.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

Question

With reference to the social order during the Satavahana period, consider the following statements:

1. The Satavahanas show traces of a matrilineal social structure, indicating that mothers enjoyed much importance in society, unlike the North Indian kingdoms.

2. They were the first rulers to make land grants (tax-free lands) to the Brahmanas.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

Quintessence Classes · Accepted Answer

The correct answer is Both 1 and 2. 1. Traces of Matrilineal StructureWhile the Satavahana succession was ultimately patrilineal (the throne passed from father to son), their society exhibited strong matrilineal influences that were rare in Northern contemporary kingdoms.Metronymics: Kings prominently used their mothers' names. Famous examples include Gautamiputra Satakarni (son of Gautami) and Vashishtiputra Pulumayi (son of Vashishti).Queen's Status: Royal women played active roles in administration and religious patronage. Queen Nayanika, for instance, issued coins and managed state affairs during her son's minority.2. The Tradition of Land GrantsThe Satavahanas are historically credited with initiating the practice of land grants to religious groups, a system that would later become a hallmark of Indian feudalism.The Beneficiaries: They granted tax-free villages and lands primarily to Brahmanas and Buddhist monks.The Purpose: These grants (recorded in inscriptions like those at Nanaghat and Nasik) were intended to gain religious merit and to bring more land under cultivation. These lands were exempted from state interference and taxes.

Answer

1 only

Answer

2 only

Answer

Neither 1 nor 2

Answer & Explanation

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JKPSC JKAS 2023 Prelims

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