Which of the following rulers is known as 'Amitraghata'?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 3:
Bindusar, the son of Chandragupta Maurya and the father of Ashoka the Great, is historically known by the title 'Amitraghata' or 'Amitrakhadesa'. This title is derived from Sanskrit and translates literally to "Slayer of Enemies." Greek sources referred to him as 'Amitrochates' or 'Allitrochades,' which are Hellenized versions of the Sanskrit name. This appellation signifies his military prowess and expansionist policies during his reign (c. 298 – c. 272 BCE) of the vast Mauryan Empire. While detailed records of his military campaigns are sparse compared to his son Ashoka, the title confirms his successful subjugation of rivals and maintenance of the empire's hegemony across the Indian subcontinent.

The incorrect option is 1:
Samudragupta was a prominent ruler of the Gupta Dynasty (c. 335–375 CE), often called the "Napoleon of India" due to his military conquests across Northern and Southern India. His titles included 'Parakramanka' (One whose might is displayed) and 'Ashvamedha Parakrama' (Powerful performer of the horse sacrifice), but not 'Amitraghata'.

The incorrect option is 2:
Kanishka was one of the greatest emperors of the Kushan dynasty, reigning around the 1st or 2nd century CE. He is primarily known for his patronage of Buddhism and organizing the Fourth Buddhist Council. His titles were related to royalty and divinity, such as *Devaputra* (Son of God) and *Shaonano Shao* (King of Kings), but he was not known as 'Amitraghata'.

The incorrect option is 4:
Chandragupta Maurya was the founder of the Mauryan Empire. He is known for successfully overthrowing the Nanda dynasty and driving out the Greek forces following Alexander's invasion. While a great conqueror, his specific titles were usually related to his lineage or imperial status, such as *Rajadhiraja* (King of Kings), and he is not traditionally recognized by the epithet 'Amitraghata'.