[348] He alludes to the Brahmins, who seem to have been called by the Greek writers “Gymnosophists,” or “naked wise men.” The Brahmin Calanus is a memorable example of this kind of self-immolation.
[349] It is extremely doubtful if, even in his own day, Pliny was correct in venturing upon so sweeping an assertion.
[350] The Sudra or menial caste.
[351] He is incorrect here; these duties devolve on the Vaisya class.
[352] Inhabited, probably, by a branch of the Calingæ previously mentioned.
[353] Ansart suggests that this may be the modern kingdom of Pegu. He thinks also that the preceding kingdom may be that now called Arracan.
[354] These may possibly be the Daradræ of Ptolemy, but it seems impossible to guess their locality.
[355] Probably the present Patna. D’Anville, however, identifies it with Allahabad, while Welford and Wahl are inclined to think it the same as Radjeurah, formerly called Balipoutra or Bengala. The Prasii are probably the race of people mentioned in the ancient Sanscrit books under the name of the “Pragi” or the Eastern Empire, while the Gangarides are mentioned in the same works under the name of “Gandaressa” or Kingdom of the Ganges.
[356] Hardouin is of opinion that these nations dwelt in the localities occupied by the districts of Gwalior and Agra.
[357] The Septentriones or “Seven Trions,” in the original. Parisot is of opinion that under this name of Mount Maleus he alludes to the Western Ghauts, and that the name still survives in the word Malabar. He also remarks that this statement of Pliny is not greatly exaggerated.