Question

Which of the following was the main source of initial information about Hampi’s ruins for Colonel Colin Mackenzie?

• A. British documents
• B. Memories of priests
• C. Foreign travellers account
• D. Epigraphic inscriptions

Hint:

When studying ancient ruins and historical sites, don't overlook the value of oral traditions and memories, especially from local sources such as priests, which often serve as the earliest record of the site’s history.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Colonel Colin Mackenzie was one of the first to document the ruins of Hampi, and the main source of initial information he used was the memories of priests who had preserved oral traditions about the site. These priests played a key role in passing down historical knowledge, which helped Mackenzie in his exploration and documentation of Hampi.
Explanation of Other Options:
- Option (A): While British documents may have been a secondary source, they were not the main source of information about Hampi's ruins for Mackenzie. - Option (C): Foreign travellers' accounts were valuable for historical research, but Mackenzie's primary source of initial information was the local oral traditions. - Option (D): Epigraphic inscriptions are crucial for understanding historical sites, but Mackenzie's first information came mainly from the memories of priests rather than inscriptions.
Conclusion:
The correct answer is (B), as the memories of priests were the primary source of information that guided Colin Mackenzie's initial exploration of Hampi’s ruins.