[Solved] Panchatantra: The Most Translated Indian Book

Which ancient Indian book has been translated into 15 (fifteen) Indian and 40 (forty) foreign languages?

[Uttarakhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2010]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

The Panchatantra is India’s greatest literary export, using animal fables as a medium to teach 'Niti' (worldly wisdom) across disparate cultures.

Authentic Source Evidence

Attributed to Vishnu Sharma, the Panchatantra has been translated into over 50 languages globally, including Arabic (Kalila wa Dimna), Persian, Greek, and Latin.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Option B is correct. Its universal appeal lies in its practical advice for leadership and social survival.

Logic 2: It holds the record for being the most translated secular work of ancient India.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Why did Vishnu Sharma compose the Panchatantra?"

To educate the three dull-witted sons of a king in the principles of statecraft and moral conduct.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The migration of the Panchatantra via the Silk Road made it the primary ancestor of many European fable traditions."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Vishnu Sharma 2 Kalila wa Dimna 3 Niti-shastra 2

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