Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 101

What is the meaning of 'Sakalottara patisvara'?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the historical context of ancient Indian geography and political divisions.

Correct Answer: B) The Sovereignty of entire Uttarapatha.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The term 'Sakalottara patisvara' is a compound word in Sanskrit, where 'Sakalottara' means 'entire north' and 'patisvara' means 'sovereignty'. This term is used to describe the sovereignty over the entire region of Uttarapatha, which was a significant political and geographical division in ancient India.

Uttarapatha, meaning 'northward path', was a vast territory that extended north of the Vindhya range, covering parts of modern-day northern India, Pakistan, and Central Asia. It was one of the major regions in ancient India, alongside other regions such as Purva Desha (eastern region), Dashinapatha (southern region), and Parvata (mountainous regions).

Understanding the historical context of these regions is crucial for comprehending the political and cultural landscape of ancient India. Each region had its own distinct characteristics, including geographical features, cultural practices, and political structures. Uttarapatha, in particular, was known for its strategic importance due to its location and the presence of major trade routes.

The term 'Sakalottara patisvara' thus refers to the complete control or sovereignty over the entire Uttarapatha region. This concept is important in the study of ancient Indian history and geography, as it helps in understanding the political divisions and the extent of power wielded by various rulers and empires in ancient times.

It is essential to distinguish between these different regions to avoid confusion. For instance, Purva Desha was located to the east of the Vindhya range, Dashinapatha was to the south, and Parvata referred to mountainous regions. Each of these regions had its own unique features and significance in the historical context of ancient India.

Therefore, the correct answer is that 'Sakalottara patisvara' means the sovereignty of the entire Uttarapatha region, reflecting the comprehensive control over this significant part of ancient India.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Incorrect. 'Sakalottara patisvara' does not refer to the sovereignty of Purva Desha, which was a different region in ancient India, located to the east of the Vindhya range.
  • Option B: Correct. 'Sakalottara patisvara' means the sovereignty of the entire Uttarapatha, a significant region in ancient India that extended north of the Vindhya range.
  • Option C: Incorrect. 'Sakalottara patisvara' is not related to Dashinapatha, which was a southern region in ancient India, located to the south of the Vindhya range.
  • Option D: Incorrect. 'Sakalottara patisvara' does not refer to the sovereignty of Parvata, which is a term that generally refers to mountainous regions and is not a specific ancient Indian political division.

Mnemonic: Uttarapatha: Northward Path

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