Which Pallava king assumed the title "Vatapikonda" after defeating and killing the Chalukya ruler Pulakeshin II at Vatapi?

Introduction / Context:
The power struggle between the Pallavas of Kanchipuram and the Chalukyas of Badami was a central feature of early medieval South Indian history. One of the most famous events in this rivalry was the Pallava invasion of Vatapi, the Chalukya capital. The Pallava king who achieved this victory took on the proud title "Vatapikonda", meaning conqueror of Vatapi. This question checks whether the learner can connect that title with the correct Pallava ruler.

Given Data / Assumptions:
The question clearly states that the title Vatapikonda was assumed after defeating and slaying the Chalukya king Pulakeshin II at Vatapi. The options list several Pallava rulers, including Narasimhavarman I and Mahendravarman I. We assume that Pulakeshin II is correctly identified as a major Chalukya ruler and that the event refers to a historically recorded Pallava campaign which is often mentioned in standard texts on South Indian dynasties.

Concept / Approach:
The main concept is recognition of famous royal titles and major military victories. Pulakeshin II had earlier defeated Harsha and was a powerful monarch. Later he was attacked by the Pallava ruler Narasimhavarman I, who took advantage of Chalukya weaknesses, invaded Vatapi, and is believed to have killed Pulakeshin II in battle. Because of this achievement Narasimhavarman I adopted the title Vatapikonda. Other Pallavas such as Mahendravarman I and Paramesvaravarman I have their own achievements but are not linked to this specific title.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall key facts about Pulakeshin II and the rivalry between Chalukyas and Pallavas. Step 2: Remember that Narasimhavarman I, the son of Mahendravarman I, led a successful counter offensive against the Chalukyas. Step 3: Note that this campaign culminated in the capture of Vatapi, the Chalukya capital. Step 4: Associate the title Vatapikonda, meaning conqueror of Vatapi, with Narasimhavarman I as recorded in inscriptions. Step 5: Check options and select Narasimhavarman I as the only ruler clearly connected with this title.

Verification / Alternative check:
Standard history textbooks and exam guides repeat the association between Narasimhavarman I and the title Vatapikonda. Many multiple choice questions directly state that Narasimhavarman I defeated Pulakeshin II and destroyed Vatapi. Inscriptions and literary sources also celebrate his conquest. No similar association is mentioned for Mahendravarman I or later Pallavas like Nandivarman, which confirms that Narasimhavarman I is the correct choice.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Mahendravarman I is wrong because he was earlier than this event and is known more for patronage of cave temples and literature than for conquering Vatapi. Paramesvaravarman I is incorrect because he ruled later and did not gain the title Vatapikonda. Nandivarman II is also wrong, since he came even later and dealt with different political challenges. Simhavishnu was an earlier Pallava king who began the expansion of Pallava power but was not associated with the defeat of Pulakeshin II.

Common Pitfalls:
A frequent confusion is between Mahendravarman I and Narasimhavarman I, because they are father and son and both are important rulers. Students sometimes attribute all major Pallava achievements to the more familiar name without checking details. Another pitfall is failing to connect royal titles with specific events. Creating a mental link between Vatapikonda and the conquest of Vatapi by Narasimhavarman I helps avoid this confusion in exams.

Final Answer:
The Pallava king who assumed the title "Vatapikonda" after defeating Pulakeshin II at Vatapi was Narasimhavarman I.