Question

Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A): The definition of the Shikharini meter is 'rasai rudraishchinna yamanasabhagah shikharini'.
Reason (R): In the Shikharini meter, there are 17 syllables in each quarter, with a pause (yati) at the 6th and 11th syllables.
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate 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:

To remember number codes in Chhandas:
Abdhayah = 4, Vishayah = 5, Rasah = 6, Ashvah = 7, Nagah = 8, Graha = 9, Dishah = 10, Rudrah = 11, Arkah/Surya = 12.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question requires knowledge of Sanskrit prosody (Chhandas), specifically the 'Shikharini' meter.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Statement (A) provides the standard 'Lakshana' (definition) of the Shikharini meter.
The definition is: "Rasaih rudraish-chinna ya-ma-na-sa-bha-lah-gah shikharini".
- Ya-ma-na-sa-bha are the Ganas (metrical feet) in that order.
- Lah-Gah indicates a Laghu (short) followed by a Guru (long) at the end.
Assertion (A) is correct.

Statement (R) explains the technical details mentioned in the definition.
In Sanskrit prosody, certain words are used to denote numbers:
- Rasah (Sentiments/Tastes) denote the number 6.
- Rudrah denote the number 11.
- Total syllables = $6 + 11 = \mathbf{17}$ syllables.
- The definition says "chinna" (split/paused) at 'Rasah' and 'Rudrah'.
This means the 'Yati' (pause) occurs after the first 6 syllables and then after the next 11 syllables.
Since Statement (R) correctly interprets the code-words in the definition and provides the syllable count, it is factually true and acts as the perfect explanation for why the definition is worded that way.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) explains (A). Thus, Option (A) is the correct choice.