Correct Option
The correct option is (c) 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
The linguistic and political history of Bengal evolved through various phases, influenced by Sanskritization in the ancient period, regional dynastic rules in the early medieval period, and Persian administrative culture during the Mughal era.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: The Chinese traveller Xuan Zang (Hiuen Tsang), who visited India in the seventh century, observed that languages related to Sanskrit were in use all over Bengal. This indicates the growing influence of Sanskrit and Brahmanical culture in the region during that period.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: From the eighth century, Bengal came under the control of the Pala dynasty, not the Rashtrakutas. The Palas (founded by Gopala) were the dominant power in Bengal and Bihar during this period. While the Rashtrakutas were involved in the Tripartite Struggle and occasionally raided northern territories, they were a Deccan-based power and did not rule Bengal.
- Statement 3 is Correct: During the Mughal period, Persian was the official language of administration, court, and diplomacy across the Mughal Empire, including the province (Subah) of Bengal. This facilitated a uniform administrative culture.
Key Takeaway
The linguistic evolution of Bengal involved an early Sanskrit influence noted by Xuan Zang, followed by the development of regional identity under the Palas, and the integration of Persian as the administrative language under Mughal rule.