In which of the following inscriptions of Ashoka his name ‘Ashoka’ has been mentioned ?

Question

Accepted Answer

Option 2, the Nettur Inscription, is identified as the correct answer where Ashoka's name is mentioned. This conclusion is based on historical records and scholarly research that highlight the significance of the Nettur Inscription in explicitly mentioning Ashoka by name. The inscriptions of Ashoka, known for their edicts and decrees, often refer to him as "Devanampriya" or "Priyadarshi," but specific inscriptions like Nettur are noted for directly using his name, "Ashoka."

1. **Explanation for Option 2 (Nettur Inscription):**
   - The Nettur Inscription is significant because it is one of the few inscriptions where Ashoka's name is explicitly mentioned. This inscription provides direct evidence of Ashoka's identity and his role as a ruler, which is crucial for historians in confirming the historical accounts of his reign. The explicit mention of his name helps in distinguishing this inscription from others that might only refer to him by his titles.

2. **Explanation for why other options are incorrect:**

- **Option 1 (Ahraura Inscription):**
     - The Ahraura Inscription does not explicitly mention Ashoka by name. Instead, it is more focused on the edicts and moral teachings attributed to him, using titles like "Devanampriya" or "Priyadarshi." Therefore, it does not meet the criterion of mentioning his name directly.

- **Option 3 (Bhabru Inscription):**
     - The Bhabru Inscription is known for its religious content and references to Buddhist teachings. While it is an important inscription in understanding Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism and his promotion of the religion, it does not specifically mention his name "Ashoka."

- **Option 4 (Rupnath Inscription):**
     - Similar to other inscriptions, the Rupnath Inscription refers to Ashoka using his titles rather than his actual name. It is primarily focused on his edicts and the propagation of Dharma, lacking the direct mention of "Ashoka."

In conclusion, the Nettur Inscription stands out as the correct answer because it directly mentions Ashoka by name, distinguishing it from other inscriptions that refer to him by his titles or focus on his edicts and religious contributions.