Sāmaveda Branches Overview
The Sāmaveda, one of the four Vedas, has several traditional branches or Śākhās. These branches represent different recensions and traditions of the Veda.
Identifying the Non-Sāmaveda Branch
The question asks to identify the Śākhā that is NOT a branch of the Sāmaveda.
- Kauthumīya Śākhā: This is a major branch of the Sāmaveda.
- Jaiminīya Śākhā: Also known as the Talavakāra Śākhā, this is another significant branch of the Sāmaveda.
- Rāṇāyanīya Śākhā: This is recognized as a branch associated with the Sāmaveda.
- Taittirīya Śākhā: This branch belongs to the Krishna Yajurveda, not the Sāmaveda.
Conclusion
Based on the established classification of Vedic texts, the Taittirīya Śākhā is associated with the Yajurveda.
Therefore, the correct option is C.