Name the famous literary personality who has authored the book named 'Rajatarangini'.

The correct answer is Kalhana.

Key Points

• Kalhana was a 12th-century Kashmiri historian and poet who authored the historical chronicle Rajatarangini.
• The Rajatarangini, meaning "River of Kings," is written in Sanskrit and documents the history of Kashmir from ancient times up to Kalhana's period.
• The work consists of eight cantos, detailing the reigns of various rulers in the region with a blend of history, mythology, and folklore.
• Kalhana is considered one of the earliest Indian historians due to his systematic approach to documenting events, although his work often reflects a mixture of facts and legends.
• The Rajatarangini remains a valuable source of historical and cultural information about early medieval Kashmir.

Additional Information

• Sanskrit Literature:
  • Sanskrit is an ancient Indian language and the medium for many classical texts, including the Vedas, Upanishads, and epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana.
  • Kalhana's Rajatarangini is one of the few Sanskrit works focusing on historical documentation rather than religious or philosophical themes.
• Historical Significance of Rajatarangini:
  • The Rajatarangini is unique in its scope, as it attempts to present a continuous historical narrative of Kashmir's rulers and events.
  • It serves as an important reference for understanding the socio-political and cultural history of Kashmir during the medieval period.
• Kalhana’s Methodology:
  • Kalhana used earlier records, inscriptions, coins, and oral traditions to compile his work.
  • Despite incorporating myths and legends, he demonstrated an effort to critically assess sources and present a coherent narrative.
• Other Historical Works:
  • Other notable historical texts in Indian literature include Banabhatta's Harshacharita and Vishakhadatta's Mudrarakshasa, though these focus more on biographical and dramatic themes.
  • The Rajatarangini stands out for its emphasis on chronological documentation.