In which of the following relief sculpture inscriptions is 'Ranyo Ashoka' (King Ashoka) mentioned along with the stone portrait of Ashoka?
Correct Answer: Option A
Explanation
1. The question asks to identify the site where a relief sculpture inscription mentions 'Ranyo Ashoka' (King Ashoka) alongside a stone portrait believed to be of Ashoka.
2. Archaeological excavations at Kanganahalli, part of the Sannati Buddhist site in Karnataka, unearthed fragments of a stupa railing.
3. One of these fragments features a relief sculpture depicting a royal figure, accompanied by a Brahmi inscription labeling it as 'Ranyo Ashoka'. This is considered a unique discovery as it provides a labeled stone portrait representation of the Mauryan emperor.
4. Sanchi is famous for its stupas and gateways with Jataka tales and Buddhist symbols, but no labeled portrait of Ashoka.
5. Shahbazgarhi is known for a major rock edict of Ashoka, written in Kharosthi script, but not for a relief sculpture portrait.
6. Sohgaura is known for its Mauryan-era copper plate inscription, not a sculpture or portrait of Ashoka.
7. Therefore, Kanganahalli is the correct site.
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