The correct option is (a) 1 and 2 only.
Explanation
The Rigvedic people personified and worshipped various natural forces. Their hymns reflect a deep reverence for elements such as rivers, mountains, and fire, often attributing human or animal characteristics to them to establish a connection with the divine.- Statement 1 is Correct: In the Rig Veda (specifically Hymn 3.33), there is a dialogue between the sage Vishvamitra and two rivers, Beas (Vipasha) and Sutlej (Shutudri). In this hymn, the rivers are explicitly compared to "two swift horses" and "two bright cows that lick their young," reflecting the high value placed on these animals in the pastoral Vedic society.
- Statement 2 is Correct: Rivers were deified and worshipped as goddesses. The Saraswati is particularly revered and is addressed as ambitame (best of mothers), naditame (best of rivers), and devitame (best of goddesses). The Sindhu (Indus) is also praised extensively for its power and utility.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: Mountains (Parvata) were generally not considered the abode of demons in the Rigvedic worldview. Instead, they were often revered as the sources of rivers and the sacred Soma plant (e.g., Mount Mujavat). While atmospheric demons like Vritra were described as withholding waters in "mountain-like" clouds, the physical mountains were respected parts of the natural landscape.
Key Takeaway: The Rigvedic society held a reverential view of nature, where rivers were worshipped as maternal deities and metaphorically linked to valued livestock like cows and horses.