Q. Consider the following statements with respect to the three early kingdoms- Chola, Chera and Pandyas- of deep South:
- The Pandyas were first mentioned by Megasthenes.
- These kingdoms were mentioned in the Ashokan inscriptions also.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer:
Both 1 and 2
Notes: In the early centuries of Christian era, the southern end of the Indian subcontinent situated south of the Krishna River was divided into three Kingdoms- Chola, Chera and Pandyas. The Pandyas are first mentioned by Megasthenes in his Indica, who said that their kingdom was celebrated for its pearls. He also speaks of it being ruled by a woman. So, statement 1 is correct. Chola, Chera and Pandyas, all three are mentioned in the major rock edict of Ashoka. He had described them as his friendly neighbours. It is clear that their territory lay outside the Mauryan Empire in modern Tamil Nadu and Kerala. So, statement 2 is also correct.