UPSC Prelims 2026 Question:

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

1. Vitasta: Chenab
2. Asikni: Jhelum
3. Parushni: Ravi
4. Yavyavati : Beas

Select the answer using the code given below:

Explanation:

The Rigveda mentions several rivers of the Sapta Sindhu region, which formed the geographical core of the Rigvedic civilization. These rivers are referred to by their ancient Sanskrit names, many of which correspond to present-day rivers of north-western India and Pakistan.

● Vitasta corresponds to the Jhelum River. It was one of the important rivers mentioned in Vedic literature and flowed through the Kashmir region. So, pair 1 is not correctly matched.

● Asikni corresponds to the Chenab River. The word “Asikni” means “dark-coloured” or “black,” probably referring to the appearance of the river waters. So, pair 2 is not correctly matched.

● Parushni corresponds to the Ravi River. The river is historically important because the famous Battle of Ten Kings (Dasarajna War) described in the Rigveda was fought on its banks. So, pair 3 is correctly matched.

● Yavyavati does not correspond to the Beas River. The ancient name of the Beas River was Vipasha (Vipasa). So, pair 4 is not correctly matched.

Therefore, option (3) is the correct answer.