Question

Which of the following rivers is known as the ‘Purna’ by Adi Shankaracharya and is also referred to as Churni in the Arthashastra?

• A. Bharathapuzha
• B. Chaliyar
• C. Periyar
• D. Pamba

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Periyar

• Correct Answer: Option C - Periyar

• The Periyar River is one of the major rivers in Kerala, and it holds significant historical and cultural importance.

• Adi Shankaracharya, the renowned 8th-century Indian philosopher and theologian, referred to the Periyar River as 'Purna' in his writings. The name 'Purna' means complete or full, which may reflect the river's abundant flow or its complete nature.

• In Kautilya's Arthashastra, an ancient Indian treatise on statecraft, economic policy, and military strategy, the Periyar River is mentioned as 'Churni' or 'Choorni'. This reference indicates the historical significance of the river in ancient Indian political and economic contexts.

• The similar questions shown on the webpage also confirm that Periyar is the river that was referred to as 'Churni' in Arthashastra and as 'Purna' by Adi Shankaracharya.

• The Periyar is Kerala's longest river at 244 km and plays a crucial role in the state's irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and water supply. It flows through the districts of Idukki, Ernakulam, and Thrissur before emptying into the Arabian Sea.