Identify the incorrect statement in regards to the ‘inscriptions’:

The correct answer is Option (4) → The earliest inscriptions were in Sanskrit

Option (1) Inscriptions are writings engraved on hard surfaces such as stone, metal or pottery — A correct statement (not the answer). This is the definition of an inscription. Inscriptions usually record the achievements or ideas of those who had them made, such as the deeds of kings or gifts to religious institutions.

Option (2) Inscriptions are virtually permanent records, some of which carry dates — A correct statement (not the answer). Being cut into stone or metal, inscriptions are virtually permanent records, and some carry their own dates.

Option (3) Some inscriptions are dated on the basis of ‘palaeography’ — A correct statement (not the answer). Inscriptions without a date are dated by palaeography, the study of styles of writing. The shape of a letter such as ‘a’ changed between c. 250 BCE and c. 500 CE, so the script itself shows the age.

Option (4) The earliest inscriptions were in Sanskrit — Incorrect statement (the answer). The earliest inscriptions were in Prakrit, the name for the languages used by ordinary people. That is why names such as Ajatasattu and Asoka are spelt in their Prakrit forms.