Question 1

Which ancient sage is traditionally regarded as the author of the epic 'Ramayana'?

Accepted Answer

Valmiki. Sage Valmiki is revered as the Adi Kavi or the first poet for composing the Sanskrit Ramayana. The epic tells the life story of Prince Rama and his quest to rescue his wife Sita. It consists of seven books known as Kandas.

Question 2

The 'Mahabharata', considered the world's longest epic, is attributed to which author?

Accepted Answer

Ved Vyasa. Sage Ved Vyasa is the traditional author who compiled the massive 100,000 verses of the Mahabharata. It chronicles the dynastic struggle between the Pandavas and the Kauravas. The epic also contains the philosophical dialogue of the Bhagavad Gita.

Question 3

Which of the following is considered the oldest of the four Vedas in Indian tradition?

Accepted Answer

Rig Veda. The Rig Veda is the most ancient and primary source of Indo-Aryan civilization and mythology. It consists of over a thousand hymns dedicated to various deities like Indra and Agni. It was orally preserved for centuries before being committed to writing.

Question 4

The 'Tripitaka', the primary sacred scriptures of Buddhism, were originally written in which language?

Accepted Answer

Pali. The Tripitaka or the 'Three Baskets' are the canonical texts of Theravada Buddhism written in Pali. They include rules for monks, discourses of the Buddha, and philosophical analysis. These texts were finalized during various Buddhist Councils.

Question 5

Who authored the Jaina sacred text 'Kalpa Sutra', which contains the biographies of Tirthankaras?

Accepted Answer

Bhadrabahu. Bhadrabahu was a prominent Jaina monk and scholar who wrote the Kalpa Sutra in the 4th century BC. The book is especially famous for documenting the life of Lord Mahavira. It is frequently recited by practitioners during the Paryushana festival.

Religious & Epics — Set 1