SSC CHSL 2025 PYQ — Question 100

The correct answer is Option 3: Prakrit.
Explanation:

• Most of Emperor Ashoka's inscriptions were written in the Prakrit language. This was the language of the common people of that era, ensuring that Ashoka's message could easily reach every section of society.
• Relationship between Language and Script: Ashoka's inscriptions reveal a diversity not only in language but also in scripts:
• Prakrit Language: This was the language of the majority of the inscriptions, which were primarily written in the Brahmi script.
• Kharoshthi Script: This was used in inscriptions found in North-Western India (present-day Pakistan).
• Greek and Aramaic Scripts: These scripts and languages ​​were utilized in inscriptions discovered in the regions of Afghanistan.

Key Facts about Ashoka's Inscriptions:

• Discovery and Decipherment: Ashoka's inscriptions were first deciphered by James Prinsep in 1837.
• Types of Inscriptions: They are categorized into three types:

1. Rock Edicts
2. Pillar Edicts
3. Cave Inscriptions

• Mention of Name: Ashoka's actual name, 'Ashoka', appears in his 'Maski' and 'Gurjara' inscriptions, whereas in others, he is referred to as 'Devanampiya Dassi' (Beloved of the Gods).

Additional Facts:
Pali Language (Option 1): Although Pali was the primary language of Lord Buddha's teachings, Ashoka chose Prakrit—the vernacular language of the time—for his official state inscriptions.
Brahmi Script: It is considered the mother of most modern Indian scripts (such as Devanagari).
Potential Questions for Upcoming Exams:
Question: Who was the first person to decipher Ashoka's inscriptions?
Answer: James Prinsep (in 1837).
Question: Which of Ashoka's inscriptions is written in the Kharoshthi script? Answer: Mansehra and Shahbazgarhi (present-day Pakistan).
Question: In which of Ashoka's rock edicts is the Kalinga War described?
Answer: In the 13th Rock Edict (Major Rock Edict XIII).