Consider the following statements : 1. There are no parables in Upanishads. 2. Upanishads were composed earlier than the Puranas. Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

1. A. 1 only
2. B. 2 only
3. C. Both 1 and 2
4. D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: B

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect. The Upanishads contain numerous parables, allegories, and stories (e.g., the story of Nachiketa in Katha Upanishad, Uddalaka Aruni and Shvetaketu in Chandogya Upanishad) used to illustrate complex philosophical concepts. Statement 2 is correct. The Upanishads are part of the Vedic literature, composed during the later Vedic period (roughly 800-400 BCE). The Puranas, on the other hand, are much later compositions, generally dated from the early centuries CE onwards, with many compiled during the Gupta period and later. This question tests knowledge of ancient Indian literary and philosophical traditions.