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Medieval Legal Literature

Medieval Indian Jurists: Mitakshara and Dayabhaga Experts

Vigyanesvara, Hemadri, and Jimutavahana were famous medieval jurists. They authored critical legal treatises like the Mitakshara and Dayabhaga that governed Hindu social and legal life.

Primary Reference: Standard Educational Reference

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Who among the following were famous jurists of medieval India?
1. Vigyanesvara
2. Hemadri
3. Rajashekhara
4. Jimutavahana

[UPSC CSE Pre 1995]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Legal traditions in medieval India were shaped by commentators on the Smritis, who established regional laws governing inheritance, marriage, and judicial procedure.

Authentic Source Evidence


Vigyanesvara (Mitakshara), Jimutavahana (Dayabhaga), and Hemadri (Chaturvargachintamani) are well-documented as legal authorities. Rajashekhara was a poet and dramatist.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: Vigyanesvara authored the Mitakshara, the leading authority on Hindu law for most of India.

  • Logic 2: Jimutavahana authored the Dayabhaga, which was the prevailing legal authority in Bengal.

  • Logic 3: Hemadri was a versatile minister and jurist under the Yadavas, famous for his legal and architectural contributions.

  • Logic 4: Rajashekhara was a court poet of the Gurjara-Pratiharas, known for literary works like Kavyamimansa, not law.

    • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "What is the primary difference between Mitakshara and Dayabhaga?"

    Mitakshara grants sons a birthright in ancestral property, whereas Dayabhaga grants ownership only after the father's death.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "These medieval jurists provided the legal framework that continued to influence personal laws in India until the modern era."

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