Question

Two commentators of Rigveda Samhita are: A. Sayanah
B. Mahidharah
C. Dayananda Saraswati
D. Uvvatah

• A. A, D Only
• B. A, B Only
• C. A, C Only
• D. B, D Only

Hint:

Rigveda → Sayanacharya (14th century) and Mahidhara (16th century) are the two classical commentators.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Commentary Importance.
Rigveda's ancient and symbolic language requires scholarly commentaries for understanding.
Sayanacharya and Mahidhara are prominent commentators.

Step 2: Sayanacharya's Contribution.
Sayanacharya, a minister-scholar of the Vijayanagara Empire, authored comprehensive bhāṣyas on all four Vedas.
His Rigveda commentary is widely accepted as the most authoritative.

Step 3: Mahidhara's Work.
Mahidhara, a 16th-century scholar, also provided Vedic commentaries.
His "Mantramahodadhi" and Rigveda interpretations are significant within Vedic exegesis.

Step 4: Other Scholars Examined.
- Dayananda Saraswati (C): Offered modern interpretations but is not a traditional Rigveda commentator.
- Uvvatta (D): Primarily commented on Smritis and rituals, not the Rigveda Samhita.

Step 5: Identification of Commentators.
The two primary commentators of Rigveda Samhita are Sayanacharya (A) and Mahidhara (B).