King Harsha belongs to which dynasty of Kashmir?

Question

King Harsha belongs to which dynasty of Kashmir?

1. A. Lohara (Correct answer)
2. B. Utpal
3. C. Karkot
4. D. Chandella

Correct Answer

Option A — Lohara

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is Lohara.

Key Points

• King Harsha of Kashmir (reigned 1089–1101 CE) belonged to the Lohara dynasty.
• His reign is described in Kalhana's *Rajatarangini*, the classic Sanskrit chronicle of the kings of Kashmir.
• The Karkota dynasty (of which Lalitaditya Muktapida was the greatest ruler) and the Utpala dynasty (founded by Avantivarman) both preceded the Loharas.
• The Chandella dynasty ruled in Bundelkhand in central India, not Kashmir.

Additional Information

• Harsha of Kashmir must not be confused with Harshavardhana of Kannauj (606–647 CE), a different ruler in a different era — a frequent trap in GK papers.
• Rough dynastic order for Kashmir: Karkota → Utpala → Lohara.