Q. Who is regarded as the greatest law giver of ancient India?
(a) Megasthanese
(b) Panini
(c) Manu
(d) Kautilya
Ans: (c) Manu
Explanation: The correct answer is (c) Manu.
Manu, also known as Manu Maharishi or Manu Vaivasvata, is regarded as the greatest law giver of ancient India. Manu is credited with the compilation and formulation of the Manusmriti (Laws of Manu), which is a Dharmashastra text that lays down the social, legal, and ethical guidelines for individuals and society. The Manusmriti is considered one of the most influential texts in Hindu jurisprudence and has had a significant impact on the social and legal systems in ancient India.
While Megasthenes was a Greek ambassador to the court of Chandragupta Maurya and provided valuable accounts of ancient India, he is not regarded as a law giver.
Panini is known for his work on Sanskrit grammar and linguistic analysis, but he is not primarily considered a law giver.
Kautilya, also known as Chanakya, was an ancient Indian teacher, philosopher, and royal advisor. He is famous for his treatise called the Arthashastra, which deals with political science, governance, and economics. While Kautilya’s work is highly regarded and influential, he is not specifically considered a law giver.
Therefore, the correct answer is (c) Manu.
