Which of the following pairs of ancient and modern names of rivers is/are correctly matched?

Correct Option

The correct option is 3 only.

Explanation

The Rigvedic period identifies several rivers of the Indian subcontinent, primarily located in the Sapta-Sindhu region. These rivers are referred to by specific Sanskrit names in ancient Vedic literature, which correspond to modern rivers in the Indus river system.

• Statement 1 is Incorrect: The ancient name Vitasta refers to the modern river Jhelum. The Chenab was known as Asikni in the Vedic period.
• Statement 2 is Incorrect: The ancient name Asikni refers to the modern river Chenab. As noted above, the Jhelum was known as Vitasta.
• Statement 3 is Correct: The ancient name Parushni refers to the modern river Ravi. This river is historically significant as the site of the 'Dasrajan' or the Battle of Ten Kings.
• Statement 4 is Incorrect: The ancient name for the modern river Beas is Vipasha. Yavyavati is an ancient name associated with the modern river Zhob (or sometimes identified with the Hariyupiya/Ghaggar in different contexts), but it is not the Beas.

Key Takeaway:

The Rigvedic river nomenclature is distinct: Vitasta (Jhelum), Asikni (Chenab), Parushni (Ravi), Vipasha (Beas), and Shatudri (Sutlej).