The correct option is (d).
Explanation
In ancient Indian cultural history, the preservation of historical narratives, genealogies, and epic traditions (Itihasa-Purana) was a specialized profession entrusted to specific communities of bards and chroniclers, distinct from the priestly or ascetic classes.
Analysis of Options:
- (a) Shramana: Incorrect. This term refers to ascetics and renouncers, particularly those belonging to non-Vedic traditions such as Buddhism, Jainism, and Ajivikas. Their primary focus was spiritual liberation and austerity, not the recording of dynastic history.
- (b) Parivraajaka: Incorrect. This term denotes wandering ascetics or monks who renounced social life and traveled from place to place. Like Shramanas, they were concerned with spiritual pursuits rather than historical chronicles.
- (c) Agrahaarika: Incorrect. This refers to an official responsible for the administration or supervision of Agraharas, which were land grants made to Brahmins for religious or educational purposes.
- (d) Maagadha: Correct. The Maagadhas and Sutas were the traditional bards and chroniclers in ancient India. Their hereditary profession was to memorize and recite chronicles, dynastic histories, and epic tales. They played a crucial role in preserving the oral tradition of the Puranas and the Epics before they were compiled into written texts.
Key Takeaway:
The Sutas and Maagadhas were the custodians of the secular and historical oral traditions (Itihasa-Purana), distinct from the Vedic recitation preserved by Brahmins.