Author of Rajatarangini?
VerifiedAnswer: Kashmiri Brahman Kalhana
Explanation:
Rajatarangini, meaning "River of Kings", is one of India's most celebrated historical chronicles, authored by the Kashmiri scholar Kalhana in the 12th century CE. This remarkable work stands out as the first genuine historical text written in ancient India, making it a treasure trove for understanding medieval Kashmir and its rulers.
Kalhana was a learned Kashmiri Brahmin who lived during the reign of King Jayasimha (1127-1155 CE). He belonged to a family of ministers and administrators, which gave him access to royal records, inscriptions, and oral traditions. His father, Champaka, served as a minister under King Harsha of Kashmir, providing Kalhana with insider knowledge of court politics and administrative affairs.
What makes Rajatarangini extraordinary is Kalhana's scientific approach to history. Unlike other ancient Indian texts that mixed mythology with historical events, Kalhana attempted to separate fact from fiction. He critically examined his sources, cross-referenced different accounts, and even acknowledged when information was uncertain or contradictory.
The chronicle is written in Sanskrit verse and consists of eight books (tarangas) that cover Kashmir's history from its legendary origins to Kalhana's own time around 1150 CE. The work describes the reigns of numerous kings, their achievements, failures, and the social conditions of their times. Kalhana provides detailed accounts of political events, religious developments, natural disasters, and cultural changes that shaped Kashmir over the centuries.
Kalhana's methodology was remarkably modern for his time. He consulted various sources including:
• Ancient inscriptions and royal records • Oral traditions and folklore • Earlier historical works and chronicles • Personal observations and contemporary accounts
The author also demonstrated remarkable objectivity, criticizing rulers regardless of their religious affiliations when they acted unjustly, while praising those who governed well. This balanced approach makes Rajatarangini a reliable source for understanding medieval Kashmir's political and social history.
The significance of Kalhana's work extends beyond Kashmir's history. Rajatarangini represents a unique achievement in ancient Indian literature, being the first work to apply systematic historical methodology to chronicle political events. It influenced later historical writing in India and remains an invaluable source for scholars studying medieval Indian history, culture, and society.
