The Gupta King who held the title of 'Mahendraditya':

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 1:
Kumaragupta I (reigned c. 415 – 455 CE) was the Gupta emperor who famously adopted the title 'Mahendraditya'. This title, meaning 'Sun of Mahendra' or 'Lord of Indra', is primarily known through his extensive coinage, where it appears frequently. Kumaragupta I presided over a vast empire inherited from his father, Chandragupta II, and his reign is noted for peace, prosperity, and cultural achievements. He is also historically significant for founding the Nalanda Mahavihara, one of the greatest centers of learning in the ancient world. His long and stable reign, marked by diverse coinage bearing titles like 'Mahendraditya', represents the zenith of the Gupta age.

The incorrect option is 2:
Skandagupta (c. 455–467 CE) was the son and successor of Kumaragupta I. He is primarily known for successfully repelling the invasion of the Hunas (Huns), earning him the title 'Vikramaditya', but not 'Mahendraditya'.

The incorrect option is 3:
Samudragupta (c. 335–375 CE) was one of the most powerful rulers of the Gupta Dynasty, often called the "Napoleon of India." His titles, recorded primarily in the Allahabad Pillar Inscription, include 'Parakramanka' (mightiest) and 'Sarva-rajochchhetta' (uprooter of all kings), but he did not use the title 'Mahendraditya'.

The incorrect option is 4:
Ramagupta is a figure of debated historicity, often placed as an elder brother of Chandragupta II, whose existence is supported by literary sources like the play *Devichandraguptam* and some inscriptions. He is not associated with the imperial title 'Mahendraditya', and his reign, if it occurred, was brief and relatively insignificant compared to the great Gupta emperors.