In which of the following relief sculpture inscriptions is ‘Ranyo Ashoka’ (King Ashoka) mentioned along with the stone portrait of Ashoka?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2019 Prelims]
(a) Kanganahalli
(b) Sanchi
(c) Shahbazagrhi
(d) Sohgaura
Answer: (a)
Explanation:
- Kanganahalli – Historical Significance:
- Kanganahalli, located near Sannati in Karnataka, holds great historical significance. Notably, it features a sculptural depiction of Emperor Ashoka with his queen and attendants carved on a slab. What makes this artwork remarkable is that it includes the mention of Ranyo Asoka (Raja Ashoka) along with a stone portrait of Ashoka, making it the first-ever sculpture with his name inscribed.
- Shahbazgarhi – Rock Edicts of Ashoka:
- Situated in Pakistan, Shahbazgarhi is renowned for the rock edicts of the Mauryan emperor Ashoka. These edicts are intricately cut into the surface of two large boulders situated on the side of a small rocky outcrop in the Valley of Peshawar. They provide valuable insights into Ashoka’s teachings and his efforts to spread Buddhism.
- Sanchi Stupa – Buddhist Monument by Emperor Ashoka:
- The Sanchi stupa, located in Madhya Pradesh, is one of the earliest Buddhist monuments in India. It was commissioned by Emperor Ashoka and serves as a testament to his patronage of Buddhism. The stupa holds immense religious and architectural significance, showcasing exquisite carvings and artwork related to Buddhism.
- Sohgaura – Copper Plate Inscription:
- Sohgaura, a village in the Gorakhpur district of Uttar Pradesh, is notable for a copper plate inscription. This inscription, written in Prakrit using the Brahmi script, sheds light on historical events and social structures of the time. It provides valuable information about the region’s past and serves as an important archaeological finding.
Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer.
