The correct option is (b).
Explanation
Kalhana was a 12th-century scholar and historian from Kashmir. He is best known for authoring the Rajatarangini ("The River of Kings"), a monumental historical chronicle written in Sanskrit between 1148 and 1150 CE.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. Kalhana composed the Rajatarangini in Sanskrit, not Persian. Furthermore, the text chronicles the history of kings who ruled over Kashmir, not Bengal. It is considered one of the earliest authentic historical texts in the Indian subcontinent.
- Statement 2 is Correct. Unlike the writers of prashastis (eulogies), who primarily praised their patrons to secure rewards, Kalhana adopted a more objective and critical approach. He documented the achievements of rulers but was also critical of their policies, administrative failures, and personal vices when necessary.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect. Kalhana did not rely solely on oral traditions. He utilized a variety of sources to verify historical facts, including inscriptions, documents, land grants, and earlier historical works (such as those by Suvrata and Kshemendra), in addition to eyewitness accounts.
Key Takeaway:
Kalhana's Rajatarangini is a 12th-century Sanskrit text on the history of Kashmir. It is distinguished from traditional prashastis by its critical historiography and use of diverse sources, including inscriptions and archives.