Question

The description of "Shuno Langulasya" (brother of Shunahshepa) is found in:

• A. Aitareya Brahmana first Panchika
• B. Rudra Sukte
• C. Shunahshepakhyane
• D. Aitareya Brahmana second Panchika

Hint:

Mnemonic for Ajigarta's sons: "Pucha, Shepa, Langula". They are the "Tail brothers." This detail is only found in the 7th Panchika of Aitareya Brahmana, within the Shunahshepa legend.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question pertains to a specific character within the famous Shunahshepa Akhyana (narrative) found in the Aitareya Brahmana. An 'Akhyana' is a story used to explain ritual or moral points. The Shunahshepa story is a dramatic tale of a father selling his son for sacrifice and the son's eventual release through prayer.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Context of the Story: In the 33rd chapter (7th Panchika) of the Aitareya Brahmana, the narrative describes how King Harishchandra, seeking a substitute for his son Rohita to be sacrificed to Varuna, encounters a starving Brahmin named Ajigarta.

2. The Three Brothers: Ajigarta had three sons. Their names are a play on words, all referring to 'tails' (shunah/pucha/shepa/langula):
- Shunahpucha (The eldest)
- Shunahshepa (The middle son)
- Shunolangula (The youngest)

The name "Shuno Langula" refers specifically to the youngest brother. The father refused to sell the eldest, and the mother refused to sell the youngest (Shuno Langula). Consequently, the middle son, Shunahshepa, was sold for a hundred cows.

3. Location of the Narrative: While this story is technically within the Aitareya Brahmana, specifically the 7th Panchika, the most accurate answer among the options provided is Shunahshepakhyane (In the Shunahshepa Narrative). This is because the character 'Shuno Langula' is exclusive to this specific narrative and does not appear in the first or second Panchika. The story is traditionally recited during the Rajasuya sacrifice. Knowing the characters of this legend (Harishchandra, Rohita, Ajigarta, Shunahshepa, Vishvamitra) is essential for any advanced Vedic literature exam.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The description of Shuno Langula is found in the Shunahshepa Akhyana. Therefore, option (3) is correct.