The correct answer is: a) 1500 BCE – 500 BCE.
The Vedic Age is the period in ancient Indian history from the 15th to the 6th centuries BCE, during which the Vedas, the oldest scriptures of Hinduism, were composed. The Vedas are a collection of hymns, rituals, and philosophical texts that form the basis of Hindu belief and practice.
The Vedic Age is divided into two periods: the Early Vedic Age (1500-1000 BCE) and the Late Vedic Age (1000-500 BCE). The Early Vedic Age was a time of migration and conquest, as Indo-Aryan tribes moved into the Indian subcontinent from Central Asia. The Late Vedic Age was a time of consolidation and expansion, as the Vedic peoples established themselves in the Ganges Valley and began to develop their culture and civilization.
The Vedic Age was a time of great religious and philosophical ferment. The Vedas contain a wide range of beliefs and ideas, including monotheism, polytheism, and animism. The Vedic peoples also developed a complex system of social organization, based on the caste system.
The Vedic Age came to an end with the rise of Buddhism and Jainism in the 6th century BCE. These new religions challenged the authority of the Vedas and the Vedic priests, and eventually led to the decline of the Vedic religion.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
- Option a) 1500 BCE – 500 BCE is the correct answer. This is the period during which the Vedas were composed.
- Option b) 500 BCE – 200 CE is the period of the Mahajanapadas, a time of political and economic decentralization in India.
- Option c) 200 CE – 600 CE is the period of the Gupta Empire, a time of great cultural and economic prosperity in India.
- Option d) 1000 CE – 1500 CE is the period of the Delhi Sultanate, a time of Muslim rule in India.