Question

Which Sandhi rule applies to the formation of the word "Himalaya"?

• A. Savarna Dirgha Sandhi
• B. Guna Sandhi
• C. Vrddhi Sandhi
• D. Yan Sandhi

Hint:

i / ī before another vowel → becomes {y} (Yan Sandhi)

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept:
Sandhi refers to phonetic transformations that occur when two sounds or words come together in Sanskrit. These rules help maintain phonetic harmony and ease of pronunciation.
Step 1:Understanding the word formation.}}
The word Himalaya is formed from two components: \[ \text{Hima} + \text{Alaya} \] where:

• Hima – Snow
• Alaya – Abode or dwelling

Thus, the meaning becomes {"the abode of snow."}
Step 2:Applying the Sandhi rule.}}
When the vowel i is followed by another vowel, it often transforms into the semivowel y. This phonetic transformation is governed by the Yan Sandhi rule.
Step 3:Resulting word.}}
Applying Yan Sandhi: \[ \text{Hima} + \text{Alaya} \rightarrow \text{Himalaya} \] Conclusion:
Therefore, the Sandhi rule used in forming the word Himalaya is Yan Sandhi.