Why this matters now
The Rashtrakutas are tested for their role in the tripartite struggle, their religious tolerance and trade, and above all the Kailasa temple — the world’s largest monolithic rock-cut structure.
Rulers and power
Founded by Dantidurga (who overthrew the Chalukyas), with capital at Manyakheta, the dynasty was a key contender in the tripartite struggle (with the Pratiharas and Palas) for Kannauj. Amoghavarsha I — a long-reigning, scholarly king (author of the Kannada work Kavirajamarga) — is often compared to Ashoka for his peaceable rule.
Trade, tolerance and art
The Rashtrakutas promoted Arab/Indian Ocean trade and were notably tolerant (patronising Hinduism, Jainism and welcoming Arab merchants). Their crowning artistic glory is the Kailasa (Kailasanatha) temple at Ellora — a monolithic temple carved top-down from a single rock by Krishna I — alongside the Jain caves at Ellora and the sculptures of Elephanta.
UPSC angle
Know Dantidurga (founder), Amoghavarsha I (Kavirajamarga), the tripartite struggle, Rashtrakuta tolerance/trade, and the Kailasa temple at Ellora (Krishna I) — the largest monolithic rock-cut temple.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded the Rashtrakuta dynasty?
Dantidurga, who overthrew the Chalukyas of Badami in the mid-8th century.
Who was Amoghavarsha I?
A long-reigning, scholarly Rashtrakuta king and author of the Kannada classic Kavirajamarga, known for his peaceable rule.
What is the Kailasa temple at Ellora?
A monolithic temple carved top-down from a single rock under Krishna I — the world’s largest rock-cut structure.
What was the tripartite struggle?
The contest between the Rashtrakutas, Gurjara-Pratiharas and Palas for control of Kannauj.