Q. Who among the following rulers in ancient India had assumed the titles ‘Mattavilasa’, ‘Vichitrachitta’ and ‘Gunabhara’?
UPSC Civil Services Examination (Prelims) 2025 – General Studies Paper I
(a) Mahendravarman I
(b) Simhavishnu
(c) Narasimhavarman I
(d) Simhavarman
Answer: (a) Mahendravarman I
Explanation:
- Mahendravarman I, a Pallava king (7th century), was a scholar and patron of the arts.
- He assumed the titles:
- Mattavilasa (lover of intoxication from his famous play “Mattavilasa Prahasana”)
- Vichitrachitta (curious-minded)
- Gunabhara (full of virtues)
These titles reflect his literary and cultural achievements.
