Question

The Prakrit text Gāthāsaptasatī is attributed to a Satavahana king called:

• A. Gautamiputra Satakarni
• B. Rudradaman 1
• C. Yajna Sri Satakarni
• D. Hala

Hint:

Always cross-check historical attributions with primary sources and reliable secondary literature for accurate identification.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Concept
Understanding the context and provenance of ancient Indian literature helps in identifying the correct authorship. The Satavahana dynasty was a significant power during the 1st century BCE to 3rd century CE, known for their patronage of arts and literature.

Step 2: Meaning
The Gāthāsaptasatī is an important collection of poems attributed to a Satavahana king. It consists of 701 verses divided into seven sections, each containing 101 verses. These verses are believed to be composed by the king himself or under his patronage.

Step 3: Analysis
Option A: Gautamiputra Satakarni - He is a well-known Satavahana ruler who ruled around the 2nd century CE and is known for his military conquests. However, he is not specifically linked to the Gāthāsaptasatī. Option B: Rudradaman I - He was another prominent king of the Satavahana dynasty but is more famous for his inscriptions like the Nasik Caves and the Junagadh Rock Edict. There is no direct evidence linking him to the Gāthāsaptasatī. Option C: Yajna Sri Satakarni - This king ruled during the 2nd century CE and was a significant patron of arts, but there is no specific mention of his connection to the Gāthāsaptasatī in historical records. Option D: Hala - Hala is indeed the correct answer. He is known as the author of the Gāthāsaptasatī and was a Satavahana king who lived around the 2nd century CE. The text itself mentions him by name, making it clear that he is its author.

Step 4: Conclusion
Hence, the Prakrit text Gāthāsaptasatī is attributed to Hala, a Satavahana king. Final Answer: (D)