M.P.P.C.S. (Pre.) 2020

Historical Toponymy

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

It was also the ancient name of world-famous tourist destination of Sanchi-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept Toponyms (place names) in ancient India often evolved from local tribal or descriptive names to grander religious or sanskritized titles over centuries.

Explanation Historical and epigraphic records indicate that Sanchi was known by several ancient names, the most prominent being 'Kaknam' or 'Kakanaya'. Other variations include 'Kakanadabota' and 'Bota-Sriparvata'. These names appear in early votive inscriptions from the site.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: 'Besnagari' refers to the nearby city of Vidisha. 'Vetravati' is the ancient name of the river Betwa.
Logic 2: 'Kaknam' is the specific ancient term for the hill and settlement of Sanchi itself.

Active Recall

Question

Where do we find the earliest mention of the name 'Kaknam' for Sanchi?

Answer

In the Brahmi inscriptions found on the railings and gateways of the Sanchi stupas.

Core Insight

The name 'Kaknam' emphasizes the site's local identity before it was monumentalized by Ashoka.