Question 48 from UPSC CSE 2014 - Culture

Question

The national motto of India, 'Satyameva Jayate' inscribed below the Emblem of India is taken from

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: D. Mundaka Upanishad

Strategy: Focus on the phrase 'Satyameva Jayate'—knowing the direct source is critical here. This phrase is famously associated with the Mundaka Upanishad. The other listed Upanishads contain important concepts but do not hold this specific phrase. Thus, factual recall helps in selecting the correct answer directly.

Key Info: - **Meaning and Source:** 'Satyameva Jayate', meaning 'Truth Alone Triumphs', is quoted from the Mundaka Upanishad (3.1.6).
- **National Symbol:** It is the national motto of India, inscribed in Devanagari script below the Lion Capital of Ashoka, the national emblem. The emblem with this motto was officially adopted on 26 January 1950, symbolizing harmony and India's cultural heritage.
- **The Mundaka Upanishad:** This Upanishad is one of the principal Upanishads and expounds on the supreme importance of truth.
- **Other Upanishads:** The Katha, Chandogya, and Aitareya Upanishads are other significant ancient Indian texts, but none contains 'Satyameva Jayate'.
- **Philosophical Context:** Upanishads form the philosophical basis of Hinduism and are part of the Vedic literature, with each one known for unique teachings and philosophical concepts.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: Katha Upanishad

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: Chandogya Upanishad

IASCODEX · Answer

Option C: Aitareya Upanishad