The Scythians, or Shakas, originally came from _______.

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) Central Asia

• The Scythians, also known as the Shakas, were originally a group of nomadic tribes from Central Asia, particularly the steppes of modern-day Kazakhstan, southern Russia, and Ukraine.

• The Scythians were well-known for their horse-riding culture and their nomadic lifestyle, which allowed them to become formidable warriors.

• They expanded their influence over a wide range of regions, including Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and India, where they eventually established their own kingdoms.

• In India, the Shakas began to establish their rule around the 2nd century BCE and interacted with local Indian civilizations, including the Mauryan Empire and the Kushana Empire.

Famous Shaka Rulers:

1. Maues: Maues was one of the earliest and most prominent Shaka rulers who conquered the region of Gandhara (modern-day Pakistan and Afghanistan) around the 1st century BCE. He is noted for his military conquests and the establishment of Shaka rule in northwest India.

2. Chandramas: Another important Shaka ruler, Chandramas ruled in the northwestern part of India and is known for his contributions to art and coinage during his reign.

3. Rudradaman I: Rudradaman I is perhaps the most famous Shaka ruler in Indian history. He ruled the Western Kshatrapas and is celebrated for his administrative skills and military achievements. Rudradaman I is best known for his inscription at Junagadh, which records the construction of a dam and the restoration of waterworks, highlighting his contribution to local infrastructure. He reigned in the 2nd century CE and was a skilled administrator and warrior.

4. Jivadaman: Jivadaman was another ruler of the Western Kshatrapas and contributed to the stability of the Shaka kingdom in western India. He was a successor of Rudradaman I and continued his legacy by strengthening the kingdom's position.