Question

The term 'Gajapati', meaning lord of elephants, was a title used by the rulers of which medieval kingdom?

• A. Vijayanagara Kingdom
• B. Kalinga (Odisha) Kingdom
• C. Chola Kingdom
• D. Bahmani Kingdom

Hint:

The title {Gajapati (Lord of Elephants)} was used by the rulers of the {Kalinga/Odisha kingdom}, symbolizing their powerful military and royal authority.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept: Titles adopted by rulers in medieval India often reflected their military power, achievements, or symbolic authority. The title Gajapati, meaning {“Lord of Elephants”}, symbolized royal strength and control over large war elephant forces, which were an important part of medieval Indian armies.
Step 1:Meaning of the term Gajapati.
The word is derived from two Sanskrit words:

• Gaja – Elephant
• Pati – Lord or master

Thus, Gajapati literally means {Lord of Elephants}.
Step 2:Use of the title.
The rulers of the powerful Kalinga (Odisha) kingdom, especially the Eastern Ganga and Gajapati dynasties, used this title to signify their authority and military strength.
Step 3:Historical significance.
Prominent rulers such as Kapilendra Deva used the title Gajapati and expanded their empire across large parts of eastern and southern India during the 15th century.