The correct option is (b) 2 only.
Explanation
Ancient manuscripts were handwritten documents, typically inscribed on palm leaves or the birch bark found in the Himalayas. The choice of language in these texts often reflected the social and cultural stratification of the period.Statement 1 is Incorrect: Ancient manuscripts were not written only in Sanskrit. While Sanskrit was a prominent language, particularly for rituals and courtly literature, manuscripts were also composed in Prakrit and Tamil. The existence of diverse linguistic traditions is a hallmark of ancient Indian literature.
Statement 2 is Correct: Prakrit was the language used by ordinary people. Unlike Sanskrit, which was generally associated with the priestly class and the educated elite, Prakrit served as the vernacular for the masses. This distinction is historically significant, as seen in the Mauryan period where Emperor Ashoka utilized Prakrit in his inscriptions to communicate effectively with the common populace.
Key Takeaway: Ancient Indian texts and edicts were multilingual; Sanskrit was the language of the elite and rituals, whereas Prakrit functioned as the language of the common masses.