Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
Which of the following inscription gives the information about two Ashwamedha Yajnas performed by the king Pushyamitra Shung?
Solution & Analysis
Answer: C
Concept
The Shunga dynasty followed the Mauryas and is noted for a revival of Brahmanical Vedic rituals, including the grand Ashwamedha (horse sacrifice).Explanation
The Ayodhya stone inscription of Dhanadeva (a descendant of Pushyamitra) explicitly mentions that Pushyamitra Shunga performed two Ashwamedha sacrifices. This is a critical record as it places the Shungas in the Kosala (Ayodhya) region and confirms the performance of Vedic rites during their reign.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Besnagar is about Heliodorus and Bhagavatism. Hathigumpha is about Kharavela of Kalinga.
Logic 2: The Ayodhya inscription is the unique source specifically citing 'two' Ashwamedhas for Pushyamitra.