Correct Option
The correct option is 2 only
Explanation
The Harshacharita is a monumental work in early Indian literature, recognized as the first historical biography in the Sanskrit language. It provides valuable insights into the political and social conditions of the 7th century CE.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: The Harshacharita ("The Deeds of Harsha") is a biography of the Emperor Harshavardhana, who ruled North India from his capital at Kanauj (and originally Thanesar) during the 7th century CE. It was written by his court poet, Banabhatta. The text details Harsha's ancestry, his early life, and his rise to power.
- Statement 2 is Correct: The text was composed in Sanskrit, not Pali. It is a classic example of Sanskrit prose literature (kavya) and is celebrated for its ornate style and linguistic complexity. Pali was primarily the language of early Buddhist canonical texts, whereas Sanskrit was the court language during the Gupta and post-Gupta periods.
Key Takeaway
Banabhatta, the court poet of Harshavardhana, authored the Harshacharita (the first historical biography in Sanskrit) and the Kadambari.