The word 'ART' was introduced first in :

Question

Accepted Answer

The word 'ART' was introduced first in the Rigveda, which is why Option 3 is the correct answer. Here is a detailed explanation supporting this:

1. **Rigveda (Option 3):** The Rigveda is one of the oldest known texts in human history, dating back to around 1500 BCE. It is a collection of hymns and is considered one of the four sacred texts of Hinduism known as the Vedas. The Rigveda contains references to various aspects of life, including art, which is expressed through hymns, poetry, and rituals. The concept of art in the Rigveda is intertwined with spirituality and the expression of divine beauty, making it the first known text to introduce the word 'ART' in this context.

2. **Ramayana (Option 1):** The Ramayana is an ancient Indian epic composed by the sage Valmiki. While it is a significant cultural and literary work, it was composed much later than the Rigveda, around the 5th to 4th century BCE. The focus of the Ramayana is on the life and adventures of Lord Rama, and while it contains artistic elements in its storytelling, it does not introduce the word 'ART' as early as the Rigveda.

3. **Mahabharata (Option 2):** The Mahabharata is another major Indian epic, attributed to the sage Vyasa. It was composed over several centuries, with its final form dating to around the 4th century BCE. Like the Ramayana, the Mahabharata is rich in artistic expression through its narrative and philosophical discourses. However, it does not predate the Rigveda in introducing the concept of 'ART.'

4. **Atharvaveda (Option 4):** The Atharvaveda is one of the four Vedas, like the Rigveda, but it is considered to be composed later, around 1200 BCE. It focuses more on rituals, spells, and healing practices. While it contains elements of art in its hymns and rituals, it does not introduce the word 'ART' before the Rigveda.

In conclusion, the Rigveda is the earliest text among the options provided and is recognized for introducing the concept of 'ART' in its hymns and spiritual expressions. This justifies why Option 3 is the correct answer.