The correct option is 2 only
Explanation
The Dharmasutras and Dharmashastras serve as the foundational texts for social and legal codes in early Indian society, prescribing norms for various social institutions, including marriage.
Statement 1 is Incorrect: The Dharmasutras and Dharmashastras explicitly recognized as many as eight forms of marriage. These are traditionally listed as Brahma, Daiva, Arsha, Prajapatya, Asura, Gandharva, Rakshasa, and Paishacha.
Statement 2 is Correct: These texts did not consider all forms to be equally good or desirable. A clear distinction was made between "approved" and "unapproved" forms:
- The first four forms (Brahma, Daiva, Arsha, and Prajapatya) were considered ideal and religiously sanctioned.
- The remaining four (Asura, Gandharva, Rakshasa, and Paishacha) were generally condemned. Among these, the Paishacha form was considered the most base and sinful.
Key Takeaway: Ancient legal texts classified marriage into eight types but maintained a strict hierarchy, validating only the first four as noble while condemning the others as contrary to Dharma.