Gautamiputra Satakarni is known for expanding the Satavahana Empire by defeating which ruler?

Correct option is D

The correct answer is (D) Nahapana

Explanation:
• Gautamiputra Satakarni (c. 106–130 CE) was the greatest ruler of the Satavahana dynasty.
• He is credited with destroying the Kshaharata lineage of the Shakas (Scythians) by defeating their powerful ruler, Nahapana.
• A hoard of Nahapana's coins found at Jogaltembhi (Nashik) were found re-struck by Gautamiputra Satakarni, confirming this victory.

Information Booster:
• Titles: He took the title of 'Ekabrahmana' (the unique Brahmana) and 'Trisamudra-toya-pita-vahana' (one whose horses drank the water of three seas).
• Source: His achievements are recorded in the Nashik Prashasti inscribed by his mother, Gautami Balashri.

Additional Knowledge:
• Kanishka (Option B): A Contemporary Kushana ruler, but they operated in the North/North-West while Satavahanas were in the Deccan.
• Chandragupta Maurya (Option A): Ruled centuries earlier (Mauryan Empire).
• Harshavardhana (Option C): Ruled much later (7th century CE).