Question 39 from UPSC CSE 2016 - Ancient
History

Question

With reference to the cultural history of India, the memorizing of chronicles, dynastic histories, and epic tales was the profession of which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Correct Option: D. Maagadha

Strategy: The question tests specific knowledge of professional roles in ancient Indian society. The task is to identify the term associated with the specialized role of memorizing and reciting chronicles, dynastic histories, and epic tales. 'Maagadha' directly refers to bards or chroniclers who performed this function.

Key Info: **Maagadha (Magadha)**
In ancient Indian cultural history, Maagadhs (or Magadhas) were a distinct class of bards, genealogists, and chroniclers. Their primary professional function involved the memorization, recitation, and oral transmission of dynastic histories, heroic tales, epic narratives (such as the Puranas and Itihasas), and various local chronicles. They were often associated with the 'Sutas' (charioteers and narrators) and played a crucial role in preserving historical and mythological accounts through oral tradition before and alongside the advent of extensive written records. Their services were significant across various historical periods, including the Vedic, Puranic, and later eras, as noted in texts from the Gupta period.

**Shramana**
A Shramana (Sanskrit for 'one who strives') referred to an ascetic, renunciant, or religious seeker in ancient India. This tradition encompasses various non-Vedic or heterodox philosophical systems and religions, most notably Buddhism and Jainism, but also Ajivikas, Charvakas, etc. Shramanas typically rejected the orthodox Vedic rituals and social order, emphasizing individual spiritual effort, self-discipline, meditation, and often living a wandering, mendicant life in pursuit of spiritual liberation or moksha.

**Parivraajaka**
A Parivraajaka (Sanskrit for 'one who wanders about') was a wandering ascetic or mendicant in ancient India. This term generally denotes individuals who had renounced worldly life and traveled from place to place, subsisting on alms, as part of their spiritual quest. They were common figures in both Vedic (e.g., Sannyasins) and Shramana traditions, seeking knowledge, spiritual experience, or liberation through a life of detachment and itinerancy, often engaging in philosophical debates and teachings.

**Agrahaarika**
An Agrahaarika was the recipient of an 'Agrahara' grant. Agrahara was a type of land grant, predominantly made to Brahmins (often learned scholars, priests, or teachers) by kings or wealthy patrons in ancient and medieval India. These grants were typically tax-exempt (revenue-free) and often conferred administrative rights over the donated land, allowing the recipients to collect revenue and administer justice within their grants. Agrahara grants played a vital role in supporting religious institutions, promoting learning, and decentralizing administration in various Indian kingdoms.

Answer

Option A: Shramana

Answer

Option B: Parivraajaka

Answer

Option C: Agrahaarika