Correct Option
The correct option is (a) 1, 2 and 4 only.
Explanation
Xuan Zang (Hiuen Tsang) was a celebrated Chinese Buddhist monk and scholar who visited India during the 7th century CE, primarily during the reign of King Harshavardhana. His objective was to secure authentic Buddhist scriptures and study at the Nalanda University. His travelogue, Si-Yu-Ki, provides a detailed account of the political, social, and religious conditions of India at that time.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: Xuan Zang returned to China via the land route. He traveled through the North-West frontier, crossing the Indus, and proceeded through the Pamirs and Central Asia to reach China. This is in contrast to Fa-Hien, who returned via the sea route.
- Statement 2 is Correct: Historical records confirm that he carried back numerous items of religious significance, including statues of the Buddha made of gold, silver, and sandalwood, alongside relics and manuscripts.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: While crossing the river Indus, his boat capsized, resulting in the loss of approximately 50 manuscripts. Therefore, he did not manage to save all the manuscripts he was carrying.
- Statement 4 is Correct: After returning to Chang'an (modern Xi'an), Xuan Zang declined administrative positions offered by the Emperor and dedicated the remainder of his life to translating the Sanskrit manuscripts he had brought from India into Chinese.
Key Takeaway
Xuan Zang returned to China via the land route (Central Asia) and spent his later life translating Buddhist texts. Unlike him, the earlier traveler Fa-Hien returned via the sea route.