Question

Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A): 'Manvantara' is one of the five characteristic topics (Panchalakshana) of a Purana.
Reason (R): Because in the Puranas, the names of the fourteen Manus and their respective dynasties are described.
In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
• B. Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is NOT the correct explanation of (A).
• C. (A) is correct but (R) is not correct.
• D. (A) is not correct but (R) is correct.

Hint:

A Manvantara lasts for 71 Chaturyugas. We are currently in the 7th Manvantara, ruled by the Manu named Vaivasvata. This is why we say "Vaivasvate Manvantare" in Sankalpas.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
As discussed in previous questions, the Panchalakshana (Sarga, Pratisarga, Vamsha, Manvantara, Vamshanucharita) defines the traditional scope of a Purana. Among these, Manvantara deals with the cyclic nature of cosmic time.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Assertion (A) is factually correct according to the standard definitions of Purana in the Amarakosha and various Mahapuranas like the Vishnu Purana. Manvantara is the fourth characteristic.
Reason (R) explains what the 'Manvantara' section of a Purana actually contains. A Manvantara is a period of time ruled by a Manu. According to Puranic chronology, there are fourteen Manus in one day of Brahma (Kalpa). For each Manvantara, the Puranas describe:
1. The name of the Manu (e.g., Svayambhuva, Vaivasvata).
2. The Sapta-rishis (seven sages) of that period.
3. The Indra of that period.
4. The names of the Manu's sons and his dynasty.
Since the description of these names and cycles is precisely what constitutes the topic of 'Manvantara', the Reason (R) is a perfect definition and explanation of why Manvantara is considered a distinct thematic component (A) of the Puranic literature. Without the genealogy of Manus and the cycles of time, the Purana would not fulfill its 'Panchalakshana' requirement.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Statement (A) is a categorical fact, and (R) provides the definition/description of that category. Hence, (R) explains (A).