Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
Who among the following deities is represented in art as hoiding the plough?
Solution & Analysis
Answer: B
Concept
Each deity in Hindu iconography is associated with a specific 'Ayudha' (weapon) or attribute that reflects their mythological deeds or agrarian/cosmic significance.Explanation
Balarama, the elder brother of Krishna, is traditionally called Halayudha (one who has a plough as a weapon). Art from the Kushan and Gupta periods consistently depicts him with a plough (Hala) and a pestle (Musala).Logical Breakup
Logic 1: According to the Puranas, Balarama used his plough to change the course of the Yamuna River.
Logic 2: In early punch-marked and Indo-Greek coins (like those of Agathocles), he is identified by the plough in his hand.