[Solved] Kalidasa and the Aihole Inscription | UPSC History

The name of poet Kalidasa is mentioned in the:

[UPSC CSE Prelims 1994]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Inscriptions often provide indirect evidence of the fame and dating of ancient literary figures. The Aihole inscription is a prime example of a 'Prashasti' (eulogy) that links historical and literary traditions.

Authentic Source Evidence

The Aihole inscription (634 CE), written by the court poet Ravikirti for the Chalukya king Pulakeshin II, concludes with the poet claiming to have attained the fame of Kalidasa and Bharavi through his composition.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: The Aihole Inscription is primarily known for recording Pulakeshin II's victory over Harshavardhana.

Logic 2: The mention of Kalidasa in 634 CE provides a critical 'terminus ante quem' for Kalidasa’s era, proving he was a well-established legend by the early 7th century.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What is the historical significance of the Aihole Inscription regarding the Narmada river?"

It describes the battle on the banks of the Narmada where Pulakeshin II halted the southern expansion of Emperor Harshavardhana.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"Ravikirti's claim to rival Kalidasa shows the high social prestige associated with Sanskrit poetics in the medieval courts."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Ravikirti 2 Pulakeshin II 2 Prashasti 2

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