The Rashtrakutas (753-975 AD) | UPSC Notes

🛡️ The Rashtrakutas (753–975 AD) 🏰 Origin & Rise: Claimed descent from the Rathikas , a clan mentioned in Ashokan edicts . Originated in Kannada-speaking Deccan ; referred to as Ballaharas by Arab travelers. Capital : Manyakheta (modern Malkhed , Karnataka). Recognized by Sanskrit and Arab sources as a major Indian power. Al-Masudi praised them as “Malik al-Muluk” (King of Kings) of al-Hind . Their wealth was largely from maritime trade . 🗺️ Extent of Empire: Dominated much of Deccan , extended into North India and South India . Constantly in tripartite conflict with Palas and Pratiharas . Engaged in major northern campaigns and southward expansion up to Rameshwaram . 👑 Important Rulers and Contributions: Ruler Period Achievements Dantivarman/Dantidurga 735–756 AD Founder. Defeated Pratiharas in Malwa. Performed Hiranyagarbha ritual to become Kshatriya. Krishna I 756–774 AD Expanded empire. Built Kailash Temple at Ellora — rock-cut marvel. Dhruva Dharavarsha 779–793 AD Defeated Vatsaraja (Pratihara) and Dharmap…