The correct option is A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4
Explanation
Ancient Indian literature encompasses a diverse range of classical works in Tamil and Sanskrit. This question identifies major authors and their seminal works from the Sangam period in South India and the Classical Sanskrit period (Gupta era) in North India.
Detailed Analysis:
- A. Ilango Adigal - Silappadikaram (3): Ilango Adigal was a Jain prince and poet, believed to be the brother of the Chera King Senguttuvan. He authored Silappadikaram (The Tale of an Anklet), the earliest Tamil epic. It narrates the tragic story of Kovalan and Kannagi and is a cornerstone of Sangam literature.
- B. Sattanar - Manimekalai (1): Sitalai Sattanar, a contemporary of Ilango Adigal, wrote Manimekalai. This epic is a sequel to Silappadikaram, following the life of Manimekalai, the daughter of Kovalan and Madhavi. It is notable for its strong exposition of Buddhist philosophy.
- C. Kalidasa - Meghaduta (2): Kalidasa is the most celebrated poet and dramatist of the Gupta period (Classical Sanskrit). Meghaduta (The Cloud Messenger) is a famous lyric poem (Khandakavya) depicting the message sent by an exiled Yaksha to his wife via a cloud.
- D. Valmiki - Ramayana (4): Valmiki is revered as the Adi Kavi (First Poet) of Sanskrit literature. He composed the Ramayana, one of the two great Indian epics (Itihasas), detailing the life and journey of Lord Rama.
Key Takeaway:
Silappadikaram (by Ilango Adigal) and Manimekalai (by Sattanar) are the twin epics of the Tamil Sangam tradition. Kalidasa (Meghaduta) and Valmiki (Ramayana) represent the zenith of Sanskrit literary tradition.