The correct option is
1 and 3 only
Explanation
During the early medieval period (c. 7th to 12th centuries), several new dynasties emerged. The founders of these dynasties often came from diverse backgrounds, including Brahmanas and subordinates (Samantas), who utilized military strength and rituals like Hiranyagarbha to legitimize their transition to Kshatriya status and establish independent kingdoms.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: Mayurasharman was the founder of the Kadamba dynasty. Historical texts identify him as a Brahmana who gave up his traditional priestly profession and took to arms to establish a kingdom in Karnataka.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Harichandra was the founder of the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty. Like Mayurasharman, Harichandra was originally a Brahmana (not a Kshatriya) who abandoned his traditional profession to establish a kingdom in Rajasthan.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Dantidurga was initially a Rashtrakuta chief and a subordinate (Samanta) to the Chalukyas of Karnataka. In the mid-eighth century, he overthrew his Chalukya overlord and performed the Hiranyagarbha (Golden Womb) ritual to claim Kshatriya status and establish the Rashtrakuta Empire.
Key Takeaway:
The emergence of early medieval dynasties highlights the fluidity of the Varna system, where individuals like Mayurasharman and Harichandra (Brahmanas) and Dantidurga (a subordinate chief) could attain ruling status through military success and legitimizing rituals.