UPSC CSE Pre 1997

Identification of Ashoka

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which one of the following edicts mentions the personal name of Ashoka?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept Most Ashokan inscriptions use the titles 'Devanampiya' (Beloved of the Gods) and 'Piyadasi' (Pleasant to look upon). Only a few rare inscriptions use his personal name.

Explanation The Minor Rock Edict at Maski (Karnataka) was the first to be discovered (in 1915) that explicitly used the name 'Ashoka' alongside his titles. Other sites include Gujarra, Nittur, and Udegolum.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Maski provided the definitive proof that 'Devanampiye Piyadasi' of the edicts was the King Ashoka mentioned in Puranic and Buddhist literature.
Logic 2: Kalsi and Rummindei use his standard titles but not his personal name.

Active Recall

Question

Why was the discovery of the Maski edict so important?

Answer

It confirmed that the 'Piyadasi' of the vast network of edicts across India was indeed the Emperor Ashoka of literary tradition.

Core Insight

The naming of the king in local Minor Rock Edicts suggests a more intimate communication with local populations compared to the grand Major edicts.