Name the place whose ancient name was "Rishipattan" or "Mrigdav" (jungle of deers):

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 3: Sarnath
Sarnath is correctly identified as the place whose ancient names were **"Rishipattan"** and **"Mrigdav"** (Deer Park). This sacred site, located near Varanasi, is one of the four most significant pilgrimage places for Buddhists worldwide. Rishipattan translates to "the place where Rishis or sages alight/reside," signifying its role as a key spiritual and academic center where learned monks and philosophers gathered. Mrigdav, or Deer Park, is a direct reference to the tranquility of the ancient forest area where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon, the *Dhammachakka-pavattana Sutta*, after achieving enlightenment. This monumental event, the 'turning of the Wheel of Dharma,' cemented Sarnath's historical identity as a sanctuary for both spiritual seekers and wildlife.

The incorrect option is 1: Mathura
Mathura was one of the two great schools of sculpture that flourished during the Kushana period, with its art known for its indigenous style and association with the *yaksha* tradition. It is famously known as the *Janmabhoomi* (birthplace) of Lord Krishna, and its ancient name is typically documented as **Madhupuri** or **Madhura**. While it was a major center for both Buddhist and Jain art production, the specific historical and spiritual context of a "Deer Park" or "Sages' dwelling" on the scale of Sarnath does not correspond to its traditional nomenclature.

The incorrect option is 2: Devgarh
Devgarh is primarily a historical and archaeological site renowned for the spectacular **Dashavatara Temple**, a masterpiece of Gupta-period architecture from the 6th century CE. It is also an important location for Jain heritage, featuring a complex of Jain temples. The art and architecture here are firmly rooted in Hindu and Jain traditions, and Devgarh’s documented historical importance is not linked to the ancient Buddhist names of Rishipattan or Mrigdav. Its primary identity revolves around its role in the Gupta empire's artistic achievements.

The incorrect option is 4: Ahichhatra
Ahichhatra was an extremely ancient and significant fortified city in northern India, serving as the capital of the **Northern Panchala** kingdom. The site has yielded extensive archaeological findings, including remarkable terracotta sculptures, which provide valuable insights into early Indian art, especially from the pre-Mauryan to Gupta periods. While historically important, Ahichhatra's ancient name and identity are specifically tied to its political role as the capital of a major kingdom and do not correspond to the spiritual appellations of Rishipattan or Mrigdav.