Who administered the agrahara lands during the post-Gupta period?

The correct answer is Brahmins.

Key Points

• During the post-Gupta period, agrahara lands were granted to Brahmins as a mark of respect and for religious purposes.
• Brahmins, as recipients of these lands, held administrative and fiscal control over the agrahara lands.
• These lands were exempted from taxation, and Brahmins were responsible for managing agricultural production and collecting revenue.
• The grants were often documented on copper plates and were intended to support Brahmins in their religious and scholarly duties.
• The agrahara system played a crucial role in strengthening Brahminical influence and promoting Vedic traditions in society.

Additional Information

• Agrahara Lands:
  • Agrahara refers to villages or lands granted to Brahmins by rulers for religious and educational purposes.
  • These lands were typically tax-free and were intended to support Brahmins economically.
• Post-Gupta Period:
  • This period (circa 6th to 12th century CE) saw the rise of feudal practices and decentralization of authority.
  • Land grants, including agrahara lands, became a common feature of administration.
• Brahmins’ Role:
  • Brahmins were not only religious leaders but also managed the administration of granted lands.
  • They contributed to the spread of Sanskrit education and upheld Vedic traditions.
• Feudal Lords and Village Assemblies:
  • While feudal lords and village assemblies played roles in governance, they were not directly involved in the administration of agrahara lands.
  • These entities managed other aspects of rural administration.