UPSC Express

Match the sacrifice with the reason for which it was prescribed:
I. Rajasuya                1. For asserting the strength of the ruler
J. Vajapeya               2. Daily fire sacrifice done by male householder
K. Ashvamedha      3. Means for legitimising the ruler’s position
L. Agnihotra              4. To ensure prosperity of realm and ruler
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A.
I-1, J-4, K-3, L-2
B.
I-2, J-1, K-3, L-4
C.
I-3, J-4, K-1, L-2
D.
I-1, J-3, K-4, L-2
Explanation :
The Ashvamedha is a horse sacrifice ritual followed by the Vedic religion. It was used by ancient Indian kings to prove their imperial sovereignty. The ceremony lasted for 3 days at the end of which horse sacrifice was performed. A King performed the Vajapeya or the chariot race, in which the royal chariot was made to win the race against his kinsmen. Rajasuya, ritual of the Vedic religion, is the king’s inaugural sacrifice. It is a consecration of a king.