Who was Harsha’s Chief Secretary?

→ Bhandi was the most trusted minister and Chief Secretary (Mahasandhivigrahaka) of Emperor Harshavardhana of Thanesar.
→ He was also Harsha's maternal cousin and childhood companion, which ensured a high level of loyalty and influence in the court.
→ The significance of Bhandi's role was most evident during the succession crisis after Rajyavardhana's death, where he helped Harsha consolidate power and move the capital to Kannauj.
→ He was instrumental in military planning and diplomatic relations during the expansion of the Vardhana Empire.
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→ Bhandi accompanied Harsha on his major military expeditions.
→ He was the one who presented the proposal for Harsha to take the throne of Kannauj.
→ He is mentioned prominently in the Harshacharita written by Banabhatta.
→ His title was often associated with Foreign Affairs and War (Sandhivigrahaka).
→ He played a key role in the search and rescue of Harsha's sister, Rajyashri.
Additional Information
Option (A) Avanti: Avanti was the Minister for War and Peace (Mahasandhivigrahaka) in Harsha's court, but Bhandi is more specifically identified as the Chief Secretary/Counselor.