Religious & Epics — Set 5

Correct Answer: B. Panini

Panini authored the Ashtadhyayi, which consists of eight chapters defining the rules of Sanskrit grammar. It is considered one of the earliest works on descriptive linguistics. His systematic approach influenced the development of Sanskrit as a scholarly language.

Correct Answer: A. Megasthenes

Megasthenes was a Greek ambassador in the court of Chandragupta Maurya who recorded his observations of Indian society. Although the original book is lost, many fragments survive in the works of later Greek historians. He provided a rare foreign perspective on ancient Indian administration.

Correct Answer: B. Harshacharita

The correct answer is 'Harshacharita'. Banabhatta, the court poet of Harsha, wrote this historical biography in the 7th century. It is the first work of its kind in Sanskrit and gives a vivid description of the political life of that era. Bana also authored 'Kadambari', one of the world's earliest novels.

Correct Answer: B. Aryabhata

Aryabhata wrote this seminal work at the age of 23, covering arithmetic, algebra, and trigonometry. He correctly proposed that the Earth rotates on its axis and explained the cause of eclipses. His work laid the foundation for the golden age of Indian mathematics.

Correct Answer: B. Kalhana

Kalhana wrote this Sanskrit text in the 12th century, documenting the kings of Kashmir from the earliest times. It is unique among ancient Indian works for its attempt at a strictly chronological historical narrative. The title means 'The River of Kings'.

Correct Answer: A. Natyashastra

Bharata Muni is the traditional author of the Natyashastra, which defines the concept of 'Rasa' in Indian aesthetics. It provides detailed instructions on everything from stage construction to the movements of the eyebrows. It remains the primary authority for all Indian classical dances.

Correct Answer: B. Kalidasa

Kalidasa is widely regarded as the greatest poet and playwright in the history of the Sanskrit language. This play about King Dushyanta and Shakuntala is considered his masterpiece. It was one of the first Indian literary works to be translated into European languages.

Correct Answer: B. Surgery

Sushruta is often called the 'Father of Plastic Surgery' for his detailed descriptions of reconstructive operations. His book discusses surgical instruments, procedures, and the management of various illnesses. It is a cornerstone of the global history of medical science.

Correct Answer: B. Al-Biruni

Al-Biruni was a Persian scholar who accompanied Mahmud of Ghazni to India and studied Sanskrit and Indian sciences. His work provides an objective and scholarly account of Indian religion, philosophy, and customs. He is considered the first great indologist for his profound research.

Correct Answer: A. Baburnama

The correct answer is 'Baburnama'. Babur wrote his memoirs in the Chagatai Turkic language, providing an honest account of his life and conquests. It is a rare example of a ruler writing his own life story with great literary skill. The book was later translated into Persian for the Mughal court.