Who among the following was the son and successor of Sansar Chand, also known as a generous patron?

The correct option is Aniruddha Chand.

Explanation

Raja Sansar Chand (1775-1823) of the Katoch dynasty was the ruler of the Kangra State and is historically celebrated as the greatest patron of the Kangra School of Miniature Painting (Pahari School). His court attracted numerous artists, leading to the zenith of this art form.

Detailed Analysis:

• Aniruddha Chand: He was the son and successor of Raja Sansar Chand. He ascended the throne in 1823. Like his father, Aniruddha Chand was a generous patron of the arts and continued to support the artists of the Kangra atelier, although his reign was short and troubled by the expansion of the Sikh Empire.
• Ghamand Chand: He was the grandfather of Sansar Chand. He is credited with reviving the power of the Katoch dynasty in the mid-18th century but preceded Sansar Chand.
• Govardhan Chand: He was a ruler of the Guler state. While he was a significant patron of the Guler style of painting (which influenced Kangra), he belonged to a different lineage.
• Prakash Chand: He was the son and successor of Govardhan Chand of Guler, not Sansar Chand.

Key Takeaway:

Aniruddha Chand succeeded his father, the illustrious Raja Sansar Chand of Kangra, in 1823 and maintained the royal patronage of Pahari paintings.