Correct Option
The correct option is A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3.
Explanation
This question is based on the observations made by the celebrated poet and Sufi mystic Amir Khusrau (1253–1325 CE) in his work Nuh Sipihr ("The Nine Heavens"). In this text, Khusrau explicitly listed various regional languages spoken across the Indian subcontinent to highlight the linguistic diversity and cultural richness of the land.
Statement-wise Analysis
- A. Dvarsamudri matches 1 (Southern Karnataka): Dvarsamudri refers to the language spoken in the region of Dvarasamudra (modern Halebidu), which was the capital of the Hoysala dynasty. This corresponds to the region of Southern Karnataka.
- B. Telangani matches 2 (Andhra Pradesh): Telangani refers to the language spoken in the Telangana region, which historically encompasses parts of modern-day Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
- C. Gujari matches 4 (Gujarat): Gujari is explicitly identified by Khusrau as the language spoken in the region of Gujarat.
- D. Gauri matches 3 (Bengal): Gauri is derived from "Gauda" or "Gaur," which was a prominent historical region and capital in Bengal. Thus, it corresponds to the language spoken in Bengal.
Other languages mentioned by Amir Khusrau in this list include Hindawi (around Delhi), Ma'abari (Tamil Nadu), and Sindhi.
Key Takeaway
Amir Khusrau, a prominent figure of the Chishti Sufi order, documented the existence of distinct regional languages (Deshi Bhasha) in medieval India, distinguishing them from Sanskrit, which he termed the language of scholars.