[Solved] Lakshmidhara and the Compilation of Nibandhas

Which twelfth century Sanskrit scholar was first responsible for the compilation of 'Nibandhas' or digests of epic and Puranic texts?

[CDS 2017 (II)]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

By the 12th century, Indian literature had become so vast that scholars began creating 'Nibandhas' (digests) to organize and summarize knowledge from the Smritis, Puranas, and Epics into manageable thematic codes.

Authentic Source Evidence

Lakshmidhara, the minister of the Gahadavala King Govindachandra, authored the 'Kritya-kalpataru', which is the most influential early collection of Nibandhas.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Option C is correct. Lakshmidhara’s work set the pattern for subsequent legal and religious digests in India.

Purpose: These texts served as reference manuals for judges, priests, and administrators to understand 'Dharma' without reading thousands of original pages.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What is a 'Nibandha' in the context of Sanskrit literature?"

It is a systematic digest that collects and categorizes scattered rules and myths from various ancient scriptures into a single topical work.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The rise of Nibandhas reflects a period of consolidation in Indian intellectual life, attempting to preserve a unified cultural code amidst political changes."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Gahadavala Dynasty 4Dharmashastra 4

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