Question

"Atarisurbharata .........।" Fill in the blank from the Vishvamitra-Nadi Samvada Sukta:

• A. gavyavah
• B. shamya
• C. indrajutah
• D. brahmajutasthanva

Hint:

Associate 'Bharata' and 'Gavyavah' as a pair in the 3rd Mandala. The Bharatas were defined by their cattle-centric economy. Also, remember that 'Vipra' in this sukta always refers to Vishvamitra.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question refers to a pivotal moment in the Vishvamitra-Nadi Samvada Sukta (Rigveda 3.33). This hymn is a dialogue between the sage Vishvamitra and two rivers of the Punjab region, the Vipas (modern-day Beas) and the Shutudri (modern-day Sutlej). Historically, this sukta represents the migration of the Bharata tribe across the Indus valley. The rivers were in full spate, and Vishvamitra, as the priest of the Bharatas, used his poetic and spiritual power to pray to the rivers to subside so his people could cross safely.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
After a series of appeals where Vishvamitra praises the rivers as mothers and goddesses, the rivers finally agree to lower their levels. They tell him to cross quickly before the waters rise again. The verse in the question describes the successful crossing and the motivation of the tribe.

The Full Verse (Rigveda 3.33.12):
"Atarisurbharata gavyavah samabhakta viprah sumatim nadinam।"

Detailed Break-down:
1. Atarisur: This means "they have crossed" (from the root 'tr'). It signifies the completion of the physical hurdle.
2. Bharatah: This is the name of the tribe. The Bharatas were the most prominent Vedic tribe, and the name of India (Bharat) is derived from them.
3. Gavyavah: This is the specific word required for the blank. It means "desiring cows" or "seeking cattle." In the Rigvedic economy, cattle were the primary form of wealth. The tribes were essentially pastoralists moving in search of better grazing lands or returning from a successful raid. The word 'Gavyuti' (pasture) and even 'Gaveshana' (research/search) are linked to this root. It highlights that the Bharatas were moving with their herds.
4. Viprah sumatim nadinam: The inspired sage (Vishvamitra) has obtained the favor/blessings of the rivers.

This hymn is not just a mythological story but a geographic and historical record of the Aryan movement towards the Gangetic plains. The term 'Gavyavah' is crucial because it defines the socio-economic status of the Vedic people. They were not just crossing for leisure; they were moving their entire livelihood (cattle) across a dangerous geographic barrier. Understanding these specific terms helps students grasp the cultural reality of the Rigveda. The NTA often tests these specific 'fill-in-the-blank' questions from well-known Samvada Suktas to ensure candidates have studied the primary texts.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The word that fills the blank is 'gavyavah'. Thus, option (A) is correct.