The question asks about the 'Prayag Prashasti' and the court poet who composed it, linking the composition to a specific king.

Understanding the Prayag Prashasti

The 'Prayag Prashasti' is a famous inscription found on the Ashoka Pillar at Allahabad (modern-day Prayagraj). Prashasti means 'in praise of'. This particular inscription is essentially a eulogy, detailing the achievements and conquests of a significant ruler from ancient India.

Who Composed the Prayag Prashasti?

The composer of the Prayag Prashasti was named Harishena. Harishena was not just a poet; he held multiple important roles in the court, including Mahadandanayaka (chief judicial officer) and Sandhi-vigrahika (minister for peace and war).

Harishena and His King

Historical sources confirm that Harishena was the court poet and minister of King Samudragupta. The inscription vividly describes Samudragupta's military campaigns, his personality, and his skills. It provides invaluable information about the political and geographical conditions of the Indian subcontinent during Samudragupta's reign.

Analyzing the Options

• Chandragupta: There were two major Gupta rulers named Chandragupta (Chandragupta I and Chandragupta II, also known as Chandragupta Vikramaditya). Neither of their court poets is primarily known for composing the Prayag Prashasti related to their rule.
• Chandragupta Vikramaditya: Also known as Chandragupta II, he was Samudragupta's son and a powerful ruler. While his reign is well-documented, the Prayag Prashasti specifically focuses on Samudragupta.
• Samudragupta: He was a powerful ruler of the Gupta Empire. His court poet, Harishena, composed the Prayag Prashasti, which celebrates Samudragupta's extensive conquests and other achievements. This aligns with historical records.
• Skandagupta: A later Gupta ruler, known for his resistance against the Huna invasion. His reign and achievements are recorded in other inscriptions, such as the Bhitari Pillar inscription, not the Prayag Prashasti.

Based on historical evidence, the Prayag Prashasti was composed by Harishena, who was the court poet of Samudragupta.

Revision Table: Key Gupta Inscriptions and Rulers

Additional Information: Samudragupta's Reign

Samudragupta ruled the Gupta Empire from approximately 335 to 380 CE. His reign is considered a golden age in Indian history, marked by extensive military campaigns that expanded the empire significantly. The Prayag Prashasti describes his conquests in detail, including his campaigns in North India (Aryavarta) and South India (Dakshinapatha).

Samudragupta was also known for his patronage of arts and literature. He was a skilled musician and poet himself. The Prayag Prashasti is a primary source for understanding his military prowess, administrative skills, and personal qualities, providing valuable insights into the Gupta era.