Royal records were engraved on 'tamra-patra' in ancient times. 'Tamra-patra' here means

Copper plates

The correct answer is option 1. Copper plates.

In ancient India, "tamra-patra" refers to copper plates used for engraving important records and inscriptions. Here's a detailed explanation of why this term specifically refers to copper plates:

Material Durability: Copper was chosen for its durability and malleability, making it suitable for engraving and preserving inscriptions over long periods. Copper plates could withstand environmental conditions better than other materials.

Manufacturing and Usage: Copper plates were relatively easier to produce compared to precious metals like silver and gold. They were used for administrative and legal purposes, such as recording land grants, treaties, and royal decrees. The inscriptions on these plates provided valuable historical records.

Linguistic and Etymological Basis: The term "tamra-patra" comes from Sanskrit, where "tamra" means copper, and "patra" means plate or leaf. Thus, "tamra-patra" literally translates to "copper plate" or "copper leaf."

Comparison with Other Materials:

Bronze Plates: While bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, was used in ancient times for various artifacts, the term "tamra-patra" specifically denotes copper, not bronze.

Silver Plates: Silver was used for decorative and high-status items but was less common for everyday administrative records due to its cost.

Gold Plates: Gold was used for ceremonial and high-value purposes rather than practical recording. The term "tamra-patra" does not imply gold plates.

Conclusion

The use of copper plates for engraving records reflects their practicality and cost-effectiveness in ancient administrative and legal practices. They were a standard medium for documenting significant information and were more accessible than precious metals. Thus, the term "tamra-patra" specifically refers to copper plates, making Option 1 the correct answer.