A History of Agriculture in India v1.c36.8

v1.c36.8

Sanskrit replaced Prakrit, and was the language of religion, ritual, literature and science. The *Mahabharata*, the *Ramayana*, and the *Puranas* were popular throughout the country. As K. M. Munshi observes, ‘The leading role as a highly trained and purposive agency in integration was played by Brahmanas: men of learning and teachers; literary men and religious preceptors; ‘svamins’ who specialised in the sacrificial lore; the Pasupatacharyas, who, feared and respected by the people, wielded vast influence over kings and founded temples and monasteries, all of which became the centres of the new socio-religious movement. Smarta Brahmanas were not only interpreters, commentators and lawyers, but also expounders of *Dharma*. The influence of the Brahmanas was felt throughout the country. They slowly reclaimed and raised millions of backward people. Under their inspiration, communities were uplifted and the cultural and spiritual elevation of the individual secured.’²