U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1997

Sanskrit Epigraphy

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The earliest specimen of 'Kavya' style is found in the inscription of:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept The transition from Prakrit to Sanskrit in official records marked the emergence of the 'Kavya' style, characterized by ornate and poetic prose.

Explanation The Junagadh rock inscription of Rudradaman I (c. 150 CE) in Kathiawar is the first lengthy, chaste Sanskrit inscription. It is written in a sophisticated 'Kavya' style, using elaborate metaphors and rhythmic prose to praise the Shaka king's achievements.

Logical Breakup

Logic 1: Ashokan inscriptions were primarily in Prakrit and used a direct, plain style.

Logic 2: Rudradaman's inscription represents a turning point where royal records became literary works of art in Sanskrit.

Active Recall

Question

Why is the Rudradaman inscription important for the history of Sanskrit?

Answer

It provides the earliest evidence of Sanskrit being used as a high-style literary and official language (Kavya) in North-Western India.

Core Insight

The use of the Kavya style by a Shaka (foreign) ruler shows how quickly the elite Sanskrit culture was adopted by diverse dynasties.

The earliest specimen of 'Kavya' style is found in the inscription of:

Solution & Analysis

Active Recall

Core Insight

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