Given below are twos statements- one labelled as Assertion (A) and the other labelled as Reason (R): Assertion (A) : It is argued that eulogy of poets was not the basis of legitimation of political power in early historical South India. Reason (R): The poets of the period were dependent on kings for their material well-being In the context of the above two statements, which of the following is correct?

Given below are twos statements- one labelled as Assertion (A) and the other labelled as Reason (R): Assertion (A) : It is argued that eulogy of poets was not the basis of legitimation of political power in early historical South India. Reason (R): The poets of the period were dependent on kings for their material well-being In the context of the above two statements, which of the following is correct? Correct Answer (A) is false but (R) is true.

• When we look at the socio-cultural structure of the early medieval South India, we see a newer kind of urbanization taking places, the coming up of temple towns is decisively one of the most important developments of this period, in this part of the country.

• Land grants to temples, both rulers and merchants become an important part of showing political power and gaining political legitimacy. The traders guilds also at the same time finance such temples and create an economy which is dependent on temples, generating employment and encouraging settlement.

• Apart from this, the early medieval period in South India also sees great diversification in long-distance trade and other activities.

• Hence while it is correct to argue that the poets, writers and artisans of the time were dependent on rulers for patronage, and the works left behind by such poets and writers have been important sources of history.
• However, it is not possible in any political setup that poet or artisans can speak contrary to the king and thrive. They were autocratic system relied solely on muscle power and despite having few democracy here and here it was a monarchical system. Hence, it is very difficult to assume that eulogy of poets bears no effect on political legitimisation. As such eulogy may act as a strong bridge between ruler and subjects.

• Hence, we can conclude that

   

  (A) is false but (R) is true.