Question

The Gandatindu Jataka describes:
(A) Cordial relationship between a king and his subjects.
(B) The plight of the subjects of a wicked king.
(C) The strained relationship, especially with the rural population.
(D) That, kings frequently fill their coffers by demanding high and oppressive taxes.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (D) only
• B. (A), (B) and (C) only
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D)
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only

Hint:

Jataka tales often served as a form of social critique. They frequently depict the tension between rulers and the common people, especially concerning issues like unjust taxation and corrupt officials.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks about the themes described in the Gandatindu Jataka. Jataka tales are Buddhist stories about the former lives of the Buddha, often used to impart moral lessons and sometimes offering glimpses into contemporary social and political conditions.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Gandatindu Jataka tells the story of a king named Panchala. The tale describes how the king, disguised as a commoner, learns about the suffering of his people.

(A) Cordial relationship...: This is incorrect. The story's premise is the lack of a cordial relationship and the king's ignorance of his subjects' misery.
(B) The plight of the subjects of a wicked king: This is a central theme. The people are depicted as suffering under the king's rule.
(C) The strained relationship, especially with the rural population: The story highlights that the rural folk were particularly oppressed and feared the king's officials.
(D) ...demanding high and oppressive taxes: This is the primary cause of the subjects' plight mentioned in the story. The king's tax collectors were ruthless, leading people to flee their villages.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Statements (B), (C), and (D) accurately describe the contents of the Gandatindu Jataka. Statement (A) is the opposite of what is described. Therefore, the correct option includes (B), (C), and (D) only.