Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Identify the regions conquered by the Chandelas and the Kalachuris in the 9th century CE.

(A) Karnāta

(B) Gauda

(C) Radha

(D) Anga

(E) Vanga

Correct option is B

During the 9th century CE, the Chandelas and Kalachuris were prominent powers in Central and Eastern India. Their military campaigns reached eastern regions, especially as the Pala power weakened after the death of Devapala. The Kalachuris of Tripuri expanded eastward, temporarily taking control of parts of Gauda, Radha, Anga, and Vanga.
Gauda (north Bengal region)
Radha (south Bengal)
Anga (Bihar region)
Vanga (eastern Bengal)
Thus, B, C, D, and E are correctly associated with their conquests. The region Karnāta (Karnataka) was outside their reach and remained under Rashtrakuta dominance during this time.

Information Booster:

Gauda: A strategic northern Bengal region, it saw fluctuating control between Palas and other rising powers like the Kalachuris after Pala decline.
Radha: Located in southern Bengal, Radha was relatively accessible from Central India and often contested after Pala authority weakened.
Anga: In present-day Bihar, Anga was a rich and fertile region; both Chandelas and Kalachuris sought to control this trade-centric area.
Vanga: Representing eastern Bengal, Vanga was significant for its coastal importance and riverine trade, making it a target during expansionist campaigns. Thus, Gauda, Radha, Anga, and Vanga were important targets during Kalachuri-Chandela expansion.

Additional knowledge:

Karnāta: Refers to Karnataka, the heartland of the Rashtrakuta Empire during the 9th century CE. The Chandelas and Kalachuris had no control over this region. The Rashtrakutas were a dominant force in the Deccan and maintained strong control here.