Pulakeshin II belonged to which of the following dynasties?

The correct answer is Chalukya Dynasty.

Key Points

• The Chalukya dynasty ruled large parts of Southern and central India between the 6th and 12th centuries.
• The dynasty is divided into three distinct yet related branches:
  • The Badami Chalukyas (Early Chalukyas)  (543 to 753) CE.
  • The Eastern Chalukyas (624 to 1070) CE.
  • The Western Chalukyas (Later Chalukyas) (973 to 1189) CE.
• The temple architecture in Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal (a UNESCO World Heritage site) was constructed by Chalukyas.
• They supported Hinduism primarily, but significant Jain influences can be seen during their tenure.

Additional Information

•  Pandya Dynasty ruled around the 4th century BCE to 14th century CE. having capital initially Korkai, later Madurai (in modern Tamil Nadu).
• The famous Meenakshi Temple in Madurai is constructed by Pandyas.
• The Pandyas have trading relation with Roman Empire, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.
• They have trading relation for exporting pearls, spices, and textiles.

• Chera Dynasty: also known as the Keralaputras, ruled parts of the modern-day Kerala and Tamil Nadu during the early centuries BCE to around the 12th century CE.
• They have capital in Vanchi (often identified with present-day Karur), later shifting capitals various times
• They have rich contributions to Tamil literature, including the Sangam literature and Dravidian style of architecture. 

• Rashtrakutas: They rule in the Deccan region, known for their military prowess and contributions to art and culture ruled for (753 to 982 CE).
• Their initial capital was Manyakheta (modern Malkhed in Karnataka).
• They patronage Jainism and the rock-cut Kailasanatha temple at Ellora is an example of architecture.
• Amoghavarsha I authored works in Kannada and Sanskrit and patronized scholars and poets.