What is the Rigvedic name of the river Ravi?
Parushni
Understanding Rigvedic River Names: The Ravi River
The question asks for the name by which the river Ravi was known during the Rigvedic period. The Rigveda, one of the oldest sacred texts, mentions several rivers that were important to the early Indo-Aryans. These ancient names are often different from the names used today.
Let's look at the options provided and relate them to known Rigvedic river names and their modern equivalents:
- Vitasa: This Rigvedic name corresponds to the modern river Jhelum. The Battle of the Hydaspes between Alexander the Great and King Porus took place on the banks of this river.
- Asikini: This ancient name refers to the modern river Chenab. It is one of the major rivers of the Punjab region.
- Shutudri: This Rigvedic name is for the modern river Sutlej. It is the longest of the five rivers that flow through the historic crossroad region of Punjab.
- Parushni: This Rigvedic name is associated with the modern river Ravi. The Ravi river is one of the five tributaries of the Indus River. The famous Battle of the Ten Kings (Dasarajna) mentioned in the Rigveda is said to have been fought on the banks of the Parushni river.
Based on historical and textual analysis of the Rigveda, the Rigvedic name for the river Ravi is Parushni.
To help remember the connection between the Rigvedic names and modern names, here is a table:
| Rigvedic Name | Modern Name |
|---|---|
| Vitasa | Jhelum |
| Asikini | Chenab |
| Parushni | Ravi |
| Shutudri | Sutlej |
| Vipas | Beas |
Therefore, the Rigvedic name for the river Ravi is Parushni.
Rigvedic Rivers and Their Significance
The rivers mentioned in the Rigveda were central to the geography and life of the people during that period. They were sources of water for agriculture, transportation routes, and held religious significance. The Rigveda describes the Sarasvati river as a mighty river, often considered the most important one, although its identification with a modern river is debated (possibly Ghaggar-Hakra or a combination of systems).
Understanding the ancient names of these rivers helps in mapping the geography of the Rigvedic civilization and interpreting the historical events described in the text, such as the Battle of the Ten Kings on the banks of the Parushni (Ravi).
Revision Table: Rigvedic River Names
Reviewing the key river names from the Rigveda:
- Vitasa - Jhelum
- Asikini - Chenab
- Parushni - Ravi
- Shutudri - Sutlej
- Vipas - Beas
- Sarasvati - Debated (often linked to Ghaggar-Hakra)
- Sindhu - Indus (the most prominent river)
Additional Information: The Battle of Ten Kings and Parushni
The Battle of the Ten Kings (Dasarajna) is a major event described in Mandala 7 of the Rigveda. This battle was fought between the Bharata chief Sudas, supported by his priest Vashistha, and a confederation of ten tribes led by the Purus chief, supported by Vishwamitra. The battle took place on the banks of the river Parushni (Ravi). Sudas emerged victorious, consolidating the power of the Bharatas, who later played a crucial role in the formation of the Kuru kingdom.
Important Questions from Vedic Age
Consider the following statements about the emergence of urban centres in India from circa 6th Century BCE:
1. All of them developed away from the capitals of Mahajanpadas.
2. Major towns were located along routes of communication.
3. Many were bustling centres of commercial, cultural and political activity.
How many of the above statements is/are correct?
In the Manusmriti which form of marriage results from the “Voluntary union of a maiden and her lover”?
The rajas of the Mahajanpadas built forts as they provided _______
Name the Indian ruler of Haryanka dynasty who was the son of Ajatashatru and who laid the foundation of the city of Pataliputra.
Which of the following Upvedas is associated with Rig Veda?
