In the history of the Kangra School, under whose patronage did Tira Sujanpur emerge as the most prolific centre of painting?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → Raja Sansar Chand
Option (1) Raja Sansar Chand — Correct. He established the supremacy of Kangra over the hill states, and Tira Sujanpur emerged as the most prolific centre under his patronage.
Option (2) Raja Ghamand Chand — Incorrect. He founded Tira Sujanpur as his capital and kept an atelier. The most prolific phase came under his grandson.
Option (3) Raja Aniruddha Chand — Incorrect. He was Sansar Chand’s son and a generous patron, often painted with his courtiers. Tira Sujanpur’s rise is not tied to him.
Option (4) Raja Prakash Chand — Incorrect. He ruled Guler, not Kangra. Under a financial crisis he could no longer maintain his atelier.
NCERT (2026-27): “Kangra School …After the decline of the Mughal power, Raja Ghamand Chand recovered most of the territory and founded his capital town of Tira Sujanpur on the banks of river Beas and constructed fine monuments. He also maintained an atelier of artists. Raja Sansar Chand established supremacy of Kangra over all surrounding hill states. Tira Sujanpur emerged as the most prolific centre of painting under his patronage. …Sansar Chand’s son Aniruddha Chand (1823–1831), too, was a generous patron and is often seen painted with his courtiers.” |