NCERT Class 12 History — Chapter 2: Kings, Farmers and Towns - Early States and Economies (c. 600 BCE - 600 CE)

The correct Answer is Vellalar : Slaves in early Tamil society

Explanation

The question assesses knowledge of historical terms and their correct associations with ancient Indian society, particularly focusing on South Indian history and administrative/social structures.

Statement-wise Analysis

1. Silappadikaram : Epic written in Tamil
   Correct. Silappadikaram is one of the five great epics of Tamil literature, composed by Ilango Adigal. It is a foundational work in Tamil literary tradition.
2. Devaputra : Title adopted by Kushana rulers
   Correct. The Kushana rulers, particularly Kanishka, adopted the title Devaputra, meaning 'son of God', signifying their divine right to rule and elevated status.
3. Samanta : Men who maintained themselves through local resources
   Correct. In the post-Gupta period, Samantas were powerful local chiefs or feudatories who maintained themselves and their armies through the resources of their local territories, often paying tribute and providing military support to a paramount ruler.
4. Vellalar : Slaves in early Tamil society
   Incorrect. In early Tamil society, particularly during the Sangam period, Vellalar were a prominent agricultural class, often wealthy landowners and cultivators. They were not slaves. Slaves were known by other terms such as adimai.

Key Takeaway

The term Vellalar refers to a class of wealthy landowners and cultivators in early Tamil society, not slaves.