In which period is the first inscriptional example of the practice of Sati found?

Correct option is D

The correct answer is (d) Gupta.
 The first inscriptional evidence of the practice of Sati is found during the Gupta period.
 An inscription from the Gupta era records the practice of Sati, indicating that it was prevalent during this time.
 The practice of Sati, where a widow would immolate herself on her husband's funeral pyre, became more prominent in later periods, but the earliest inscriptional evidence dates back to the Gupta period.
Information Booster:
Maukhari Dynasty:
 Period: The Maukhari dynasty rose to prominence in the 6th century CE.
 Region: They ruled parts of present-day Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
 Significance: The Maukharis initially served as vassals to the Guptas before asserting their independence. They were known for their conflicts with the Later Guptas and the Vardhana dynasty.
Vardhana Dynasty:
 Period: The Vardhana dynasty, also known as the Pushyabhuti dynasty, was prominent in the early 7th century CE.
 Region: They ruled northern India, with their capital at Thanesar (modern-day Haryana).
 Significance: The most notable ruler of this dynasty was Harshavardhana (Harsha), who united northern India and was a great patron of arts and Buddhism.
 Cultural Contributions: Harsha's court was a center of cultural activities, and he patronized scholars like Banabhatta and the Chinese traveler Xuanzang.
Satavahana Dynasty:
 Period: The Satavahana dynasty ruled from approximately 1st century BCE to 3rd century CE.
 Region: They controlled the Deccan region, including parts of present-day Maharashtra, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.
 Cultural Contributions: They are known for their contributions to Indian art, including the construction of stupas and chaityas, most notably the Amaravati Stupa.
Gupta Dynasty:
 Period: The Gupta Empire existed from around 320 to 550 CE.
 Region: They ruled a vast territory that covered much of northern and central India.
 Significance: The Gupta period is often referred to as the "Golden Age of India" due to the significant advancements in arts, science, and literature.
 Cultural Contributions:
o Art and Architecture: The Gupta period saw the development of classical Indian art and architecture, including the construction of temples, cave paintings, and sculptures.
o Literature: This era produced famous literary works, including the writings of Kalidasa and the compilation of important Sanskrit texts.
o Science and Mathematics: Notable advancements were made in the fields of astronomy, mathematics, and medicine. Aryabhata, a prominent mathematician and astronomer, wrote the "Aryabhatiya" during this period.
o Economy: The Gupta rulers promoted trade and commerce, leading to economic prosperity and the spread of Indian culture to other parts of Asia through trade routes.