Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 31

The long Sanskrit poem written by Kalhana, Was the history of kings who ruled over?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the region where Kalhana lived and wrote his historical work.

Correct Answer: C) Kashmir

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, Civil Services

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The "Rajatarangini" is a significant historical chronicle written in Sanskrit by Kalhana, a Kashmiri poet and historian, in the 12th century. The work is a detailed account of the kings who ruled over Kashmir, covering a period from the earliest times to the 12th century. The term "Rajatarangini" translates to "River of Kings," symbolizing the continuous flow of rulers and their reigns over the region.

Kalhana, the author, was a court poet in Kashmir and lived during the reign of King Jayasimha of the Kashmiri Karkota dynasty. He wrote the "Rajatarangini" in the 12th century, drawing on a variety of sources including earlier chronicles, inscriptions, and oral traditions. The work is divided into eight books, each focusing on different periods and dynasties that ruled Kashmir.

The "Rajatarangini" is not only a historical text but also a literary work, showcasing Kalhana's poetic skills. It provides valuable insights into the political, social, and cultural history of Kashmir. The work is particularly important for its detailed accounts of the various dynasties that ruled the region, including the Karkotas, Utpalas, and Loharas.

It is crucial to understand that the "Rajatarangini" is specific to Kashmir and does not cover the histories of other regions such as Somnath, Kanauj, or Delhi. Each of these regions has its own historical texts and chronicles that focus on their respective histories. The "Rajatarangini" stands out as a comprehensive and detailed account of Kashmir's royal lineage and historical events.

Therefore, the correct answer is that the "Rajatarangini" is the history of the kings who ruled over Kashmir. This work is a cornerstone of Kashmiri and Indian historical literature, providing a rich and detailed narrative of the region's past.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is incorrect. The "Rajatarangini" does not cover the history of Somnath. Somnath is a different region with its own historical significance, but it is not the focus of Kalhana's work.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. The "Rajatarangini" does not cover the history of Kanauj. Kanauj was an important center in North India, but Kalhana's work is specifically about Kashmir.
  • Option C: This option is correct. The "Rajatarangini" is a historical chronicle written by Kalhana that details the history of the kings who ruled over Kashmir. This work is significant for its detailed account of the region's political and cultural history.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. The "Rajatarangini" does not cover the history of Delhi. Delhi has its own rich history, but it is not the focus of Kalhana's work, which is specifically about Kashmir.

Mnemonic: K for Kalhana, K for Kashmir

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