With reference to the Prakrit language, consider the following statements:
1. Prakrit was used for the sermons of Mahavira and the edicts of King Ashoka.
2. Prakrit shows traces of regional variations across inscriptions and texts.
3. Acharya Bharatmuni mentioned Prakrit as the language of the elite in his work Natyashastra.
4. Prakrit was granted Classical Language status by the Government of India.

Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 4 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Question

With reference to the Prakrit language, consider the following statements:
1. Prakrit was used for the sermons of Mahavira and the edicts of King Ashoka.
2. Prakrit shows traces of regional variations across inscriptions and texts.
3. Acharya Bharatmuni mentioned Prakrit as the language of the elite in his work Natyashastra.
4. Prakrit was granted Classical Language status by the Government of India.

Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 4 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

ONLiNE UPSC · Accepted Answer

Context: Recently, the Union Cabinet approved granting Classical Language status to Prakrit along with Marathi, Pali, Assamese, and Bengali.

Statement 1 is correct: Prakrit was used in Jain and Buddhist teachings, including Mahavira&rsquo;s sermons and the inscriptions of King Ashoka.

Statement 2 is correct: Prakrit developed several regional forms, which are reflected in inscriptions and literary works. These variations, such as Maharashtri, Magadhi, and Shauraseni, show its widespread usage and adaptation.

Statement 3 is not correct: Acharya Bharatmuni described Prakrit as the language of the common people, not the elite, highlighting its accessibility in ancient India.

Statement 4 is correct: In 2024, the Government of India conferred Classical Language status on Prakrit, recognizing its cultural and historical importance.

Ancient Indian Languages

Prakrit Language

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M Question 1	⏱ 0
With reference to the Prakrit language, consider the following statements: 1. Prakrit was used for the sermons of Mahavira and the edicts of King Ashoka. 2. Prakrit shows traces of regional variations across inscriptions and texts. 3. Acharya Bharatmuni mentioned Prakrit as the language of the elite in his work Natyashastra. 4. Prakrit was granted Classical Language status by the Government of India. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1, 2 and 4 only (c) 2, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4