Which of the following statements about the Pala Dynasty of eastern India is INCORRECT?

The correct answer (i.e. the INCORRECT statement about the Pala Dynasty) is: Dharmapala founded the Valabhi university.

Step-by-step Explanation:

1. Statement 1: The Pala dynasty was founded by Gopala.
This statement is correct. Gopala founded the Pala Empire in the 8^th century CE (around 750 CE), initiating a era of stability and prosperity in Bengal and Bihar.

2. Statement 2: The Pala kings were the followers of Buddhism.
This statement is correct. The rulers of the Pala Dynasty were great patrons of Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism. They built and supported several Buddhist monasteries and learning centers.

3. Statement 3: Devapala was the grandson of Gopala.
This statement is correct. Gopala was succeeded by his son Dharmapala, and Dharmapala was succeeded by his son Devapala. Therefore, Devapala was indeed the grandson of Gopala.

4. Statement 4: Dharmapala founded the Valabhi university.
This statement is INCORRECT.
• Dharmapala was a famous Pala ruler who founded the renowned Vikramashila University in Bihar and revived Nalanda University.
• On the other hand, Valabhi University was located in Saurashtra (Gujarat) and was established by the rulers of the Maitraka Dynasty (specifically Bhattarka/Maitraka kings).

Hence, the statement claiming that Dharmapala founded the Valabhi university is incorrect, making it the right choice for this question.