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U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 2008

Mauryan Epigraphy

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The Gujarra minor rock edict, in which the name of Ashoka is mentioned, is located in-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Minor rock edicts are crucial historical sources where Emperor Ashoka occasionally breaks protocol and uses his personal name rather than his royal titles.

Explanation Found in 1953, the Gujarra edict is located in the Datia district of Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the few inscriptions (along with Maski, Nittur, and Udegolam) that explicitly mentions the name 'Asokaraja'.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Most edicts use the title 'Devanampiya Piyadasi'; Gujarra is an exception that confirmed the identity of the king in literary traditions.
Logic 2: Geographically, it is located in central India, a core part of the Mauryan empire's administrative network.

Active Recall

Question

What title did Ashoka usually use in his inscriptions?

Answer

He typically used 'Devanampiya Piyadasi' (Beloved of the Gods, He who looks with affection).

Core Insight

The use of the personal name 'Ashoka' in Gujarra and Maski was the final archaeological proof linking the Mauryan emperor to the Puranic lists.

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