MCQ Detailed View

The Gandhara Civilization, which flourished between the 1st millennium BCE and the 5th century CE in present-day northern Pakistan and eastern Afghanistan, was an important center of cultural, religious, and economic development in South Asia. It became world-famous for its Greco-Buddhist art, rich trade connections, and contributions to Buddhism. Language played a central role in connecting communities, spreading religious teachings, and maintaining records of governance and trade.

The main language of the Gandhara Civilization was Prakrit. This language, in its different forms, was widely spoken by ordinary people, merchants, monks, and travelers. Inscriptions, coins, and manuscripts from Gandhara often used Prakrit, written in the Kharosthi script. It served as the practical and everyday medium of communication, while Sanskrit was reserved mainly for religious, philosophical, and elite scholarly purposes. Prakrit was therefore the dominant language in trade, education, and Buddhist missionary activities, especially during the Mauryan and Kushan periods.

Prakrit played a crucial role in the spread of Buddhism, as many early Buddhist texts and teachings were first written or translated in Prakrit. This made the religion accessible to the common people and helped Gandhara become a major hub of Buddhist learning and pilgrimage. The Gandhara region also connected the Indian subcontinent with Central Asia through the Silk Road, and the use of Prakrit facilitated trade and cultural exchanges across different regions.

Over time, Prakrit influenced other regional dialects and helped shape later languages in South Asia. Its importance in Gandhara highlights how language not only reflected cultural identity but also played a role in spreading knowledge, art, and religion across Asia.

Key Facts about the Gandhara Civilization Language:

• Main Language: Prakrit


• Script Used: Kharosthi (alongside Brahmi in later periods)


• Other Language: Sanskrit (used mainly for religious and scholarly texts)


• Historical Period: Flourished from 6th century BCE to 5th century CE


• Region: Present-day northern Pakistan and eastern Afghanistan


• Significance: Helped spread Buddhism and facilitated trade along the Silk Road


• Cultural Role: Language of common people, inscriptions, coins, and Buddhist teachings