In the Early Vedic Period, who was the vrajapati?

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (A) The officer who led to battle heads of the fighting hordes

Explanation:
• In the Rigvedic or Early Vedic period, the Vrajapati was a significant official associated with the pastoral and tribal life of the Aryans.
• The Vrajapati was the officer in charge of the 'Vraja' (pasture ground) and exercised authority over the different 'Kulapas' (heads of families) or 'Gramanis' (heads of fighting units).
• During times of war or cattle raids (Gavishthi), the Vrajapati led these various groups or hordes into battle.
• The transition of the Vrajapati's role from a pastoral supervisor to a military leader highlights the semi-nomadic and tribal nature of the Early Vedic society where cattle were the primary form of wealth and the cause of conflicts.

Information Booster:
• The King (Rajan) was assisted by officials like the Purohita (priest) and Senani (army chief).
• There was no regular standing army; the army consisted of tribal units called Gana, Grama, and Sardha.

Additional Knowledge:
• Senior minister (Option B): The concept of a formal council of ministers developed later in the Mauryan and Gupta periods.
• Presiding officer of assemblies (Option C): Assemblies like Sabha and Samiti were led by the Rajan or elders, but Vrajapati's role was more field-oriented (pastures/battles).
• Village headman (Option D): This refers to the Gramani, who was the head of the village (Grama) and also held military responsibilities.