Ancient Indian history holds significant importance in competitive exams, as it forms a crucial part of the General Studies syllabus. Understanding India's ancient civilizations, cultures, and empires helps candidates gain insights into social, political, and economic developments. Key topics such as the Vedic period, Mauryan Empire, Gupta Dynasty, and the Indus Valley Civilization are often featured in exams like UPSC, SSC, and other state-level tests. A strong grasp of ancient Indian history enhances analytical skills, increases score potential, and strengthens overall exam preparation, offering a deeper understanding of India’s rich heritage and contributions to global civilization.
Ancient Indian History MCQs with Detailed Explanations
1. Who is known as the “Father of Indian Archaeology”?
- A) Alexander Cunningham
- B) John Marshall
- C) Mortimer Wheeler
- D) James PrinsepAnswer: A) Alexander CunninghamExplanation: Alexander Cunningham is known as the "Father of Indian Archaeology" because he played a key role in the establishment of the Archaeological Survey of India in 1861.
2. In which language were the Ashokan inscriptions written?
- A) Sanskrit
- B) Pali
- C) Prakrit
- D) TamilAnswer: C) PrakritExplanation: The majority of Ashokan inscriptions were written in Prakrit, the common language of the people at that time, and they were inscribed using the Brahmi script.
3. Who was the author of Arthashastra?
- A) Panini
- B) Kautilya
- C) Kalidasa
- D) VatsyayanaAnswer: B) KautilyaExplanation: Kautilya (Chanakya), the prime minister of Chandragupta Maurya, wrote the Arthashastra, an ancient treatise on economics, politics, and military strategy.
4. What is the Rigveda primarily dedicated to?
- A) Rituals
- B) Philosophy
- C) Hymns to deities
- D) WarfareAnswer: C) Hymns to deitiesExplanation: The Rigveda is the oldest of the Vedas and consists of hymns that were dedicated to various deities such as Agni, Indra, and Soma.
5. The Great Bath of the Indus Valley Civilization was discovered at which site?
- A) Mohenjo-Daro
- B) Harappa
- C) Dholavira
- D) KalibanganAnswer: A) Mohenjo-DaroExplanation: The Great Bath, an important structure used for ritual bathing, was found at Mohenjo-Daro, showcasing the advanced urban planning of the Indus Valley Civilization.
6. The term “Sangam” in the context of the Sangam Age refers to?
- A) Assembly
- B) Scripture
- C) Temple
- D) KingAnswer: A) AssemblyExplanation: The term “Sangam” refers to the assembly of Tamil poets and scholars held in ancient Tamil Nadu during the Sangam Age.
7. Which ruler converted to Buddhism after the Kalinga War?
- A) Chandragupta Maurya
- B) Bimbisara
- C) Ashoka
- D) HarshavardhanaAnswer: C) AshokaExplanation: Emperor Ashoka adopted Buddhism after witnessing the destruction and bloodshed in the Kalinga War, promoting non-violence and dharma.
8. Who wrote “Mudrarakshasa”?
- A) Vishakhadatta
- B) Kalidasa
- C) Banabhatta
- D) HarshaAnswer: A) VishakhadattaExplanation: “Mudrarakshasa” is a historical play written by Vishakhadatta, which describes the cunning strategies of Chanakya in installing Chandragupta Maurya on the throne.
9. The first Jain Tirthankara was?
- A) Parshvanatha
- B) Mahavira
- C) Rishabhadeva
- D) NeminathaAnswer: C) RishabhadevaExplanation: Rishabhadeva, also known as Adinath, was the first Tirthankara in Jainism.
10. Which Gupta ruler was titled “Vikramaditya”?
- A) Chandragupta I
- B) Samudragupta
- C) Chandragupta II
- D) SkandaguptaAnswer: C) Chandragupta IIExplanation: Chandragupta II was given the title "Vikramaditya" for his valor and patronage of art and culture during his reign.
11. Where was the Indus Valley site of Lothal located?
- A) Rajasthan
- B) Gujarat
- C) Punjab
- D) HaryanaAnswer: B) GujaratExplanation: Lothal, an important trading hub of the Indus Valley Civilization, is located in present-day Gujarat, famous for its dockyard.
12. The Battle of Ten Kings mentioned in the Rigveda was fought on which river?
- A) Ganga
- B) Saraswati
- C) Ravi
- D) ParushniAnswer: D) ParushniExplanation: The Battle of Ten Kings (Dasarajna) was fought on the banks of the Parushni River (modern Ravi), as described in the Rigveda.
13. The Jataka tales are associated with which religion?
- A) Hinduism
- B) Jainism
- C) Buddhism
- D) ZoroastrianismAnswer: C) BuddhismExplanation: The Jataka tales narrate the previous birth stories of Gautama Buddha in various forms, spreading moral and ethical lessons.
14. Who deciphered the Brahmi script of Ashoka’s inscriptions?
- A) William Jones
- B) James Prinsep
- C) Charles Wilkins
- D) Alexander CunninghamAnswer: B) James PrinsepExplanation: James Prinsep successfully deciphered the Brahmi script in 1837, which was crucial in understanding Ashoka's edicts.
15. What was the main occupation of the people during the Rigvedic period?
- A) Agriculture
- B) Trade
- C) Cattle rearing
- D) PotteryAnswer: C) Cattle rearingExplanation: The primary occupation during the Rigvedic period was cattle rearing, as cattle were considered a measure of wealth.
16. Which early capital city is associated with the Mauryan Empire?
- A) Pataliputra
- B) Ujjain
- C) Rajgir
- D) TaxilaAnswer: A) PataliputraExplanation: Pataliputra, near modern-day Patna, served as the capital of the Mauryan Empire under rulers like Chandragupta and Ashoka.
17. The Vedic term “Vajapeya” refers to what?
- A) A sacrificial rite
- B) A type of weapon
- C) An ancient city
- D) A philosophical debateAnswer: A) A sacrificial riteExplanation: Vajapeya was a significant sacrifice performed during the later Vedic period to affirm the power of kings.
18. The famous Iron Pillar near Qutub Minar was built during the reign of which ruler?
- A) Chandragupta I
- B) Chandragupta II
- C) Skandagupta
- D) HarshavardhanaAnswer: B) Chandragupta IIExplanation: The Iron Pillar near Qutub Minar was erected during the Gupta period under Chandragupta II and is known for its rust-resistant composition.
19. What is the literal meaning of the term “Upanishad”?
- A) Wisdom
- B) Sitting close to the teacher
- C) Worship
- D) PrayerAnswer: B) Sitting close to the teacherExplanation: The word “Upanishad” means "sitting close to the teacher," referring to the philosophical discourses between students and gurus in Vedic times.
20. The Sangam literature is primarily written in which language?
- A) Sanskrit
- B) Pali
- C) Prakrit
- D) TamilAnswer: D) TamilExplanation: The Sangam literature, including epic works like Silappatikaram and Manimekalai, is written in Tamil and is a rich source of information on ancient South India.
21. Which Harappan site is famous for its water conservation system?
- A) Kalibangan
- B) Mohenjo-Daro
- C) Dholavira
- D) LothalAnswer: C) DholaviraExplanation: Dholavira, located in Gujarat, is well-known for its advanced water conservation systems, including reservoirs and channels.
22. The “Ratnavali” drama was written by which ancient ruler?
- A) Samudragupta
- B) Harshavardhana
- C) Chandragupta Vikramaditya
- D) AshokaAnswer: B) HarshavardhanaExplanation: “Ratnavali” is a Sanskrit play written by Harshavardhana, highlighting his contributions to art and literature.
23. Who was the founder of the Satavahana dynasty?
- A) Simuka
- B) Gautamiputra Satakarni
- C) Krishna
- D) Pulakesin IIAnswer: A) SimukaExplanation: Simuka was the founder of the Satavahana dynasty, which played a crucial role in unifying the Deccan region.
24. The “Nagara,” “Dravida,” and “Vesara” styles are associated with?
- A) Sculpture
- B) Painting
- C) Temple architecture
- D) LiteratureAnswer: C) Temple architectureExplanation: The Nagara, Dravida, and Vesara styles represent distinct forms of temple architecture developed in Northern, Southern, and Deccan India, respectively.
25. Which ancient text provides detailed information about India during the time of Alexander the Great?
- A) Indica by Megasthenes
- B) Arthashastra by Kautilya
- C) Mahabharata
- D) Periplus of the Erythraean SeaAnswer: A) Indica by MegasthenesExplanation: Indica, written by the Greek ambassador Megasthenes, is a primary source of information on India during Alexander's invasion and the Mauryan period.
26. The Chalukyas primarily ruled from which capital?
- A) Vatapi
- B) Kanchi
- C) Mysuru
- D) AmaravatiAnswer: A) VatapiExplanation: Vatapi (modern Badami in Karnataka) was the capital of the Early Chalukyas, who were known for their rock-cut temples.
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27. The term “Saptanga,” representing the seven limbs of a state, is mentioned in which text?
- A) Arthashastra
- B) Manu Smriti
- C) Rigveda
- D) YajurvedaAnswer: A) ArthashastraExplanation: The “Saptanga” theory, elaborated in Kautilya’s Arthashastra, outlines the seven essential elements of a state: king, ministers, territory, fortifications, treasury, army, and allies.
28. The Gayatri Mantra is addressed to which deity?
- A) Agni
- B) Surya (Sun)
- C) Indra
- D) VarunaAnswer: B) Surya (Sun)Explanation: The Gayatri Mantra, found in the Rigveda, is dedicated to the deity Savitr (a representation of the Sun), invoking guidance and wisdom.
29. Which Mauryan ruler sent Buddhist missionaries to Sri Lanka?
- A) Chandragupta Maurya
- B) Bindusara
- C) Ashoka
- D) DasarathaAnswer: C) AshokaExplanation: Ashoka sent his son Mahinda and daughter Sanghamitra as Buddhist missionaries to Sri Lanka to propagate Buddhism.
30. Who was the last ruler of the Nanda dynasty?
- A) Dhanananda
- B) Mahapadma Nanda
- C) Gopala Nanda
- D) SumitraAnswer: A) DhananandaExplanation: Dhanananda was the last ruler of the Nanda dynasty, overthrown by Chandragupta Maurya with the help of Chanakya.
31. Which Harappan site is known for its fire altars?
- A) Harappa
- B) Kalibangan
- C) Mohenjo-Daro
- D) RakhigarhiAnswer: B) KalibanganExplanation: Fire altars, believed to be used for rituals, were discovered at Kalibangan in Rajasthan.
32. The term “Ahimsa” is first prominently discussed in which religious text?
- A) Rigveda
- B) Bhagavad Gita
- C) Upanishads
- D) Jain AgamasAnswer: D) Jain AgamasExplanation: Ahimsa, or non-violence, is a central doctrine in Jainism and is first elaborated extensively in the Jain Agamas.
33. The oldest surviving Jain text is?
- A) Kalpasutra
- B) Acharanga Sutra
- C) Tattvartha Sutra
- D) Bhagavati SutraAnswer: B) Acharanga SutraExplanation: The Acharanga Sutra is one of the oldest texts of Jainism, containing the teachings of Mahavira on ethical conduct and non-violence.
34. The Ajanta Caves are primarily associated with which religion?
- A) Jainism
- B) Buddhism
- C) Hinduism
- D) ZoroastrianismAnswer: B) BuddhismExplanation: The Ajanta Caves, located in Maharashtra, are renowned for their Buddhist art and murals depicting stories from the Jataka tales.
35. The “Ashtadhyayi” was written by?
- A) Panini
- B) Patanjali
- C) Kautilya
- D) BhartrihariAnswer: A) PaniniExplanation: Panini, the ancient Indian grammarian, authored the Ashtadhyayi, a treatise on Sanskrit grammar and linguistics.
36. The Cholas constructed the Brihadeshwara Temple at which site?
- A) Madurai
- B) Thanjavur
- C) Kanchipuram
- D) TiruchirappalliAnswer: B) ThanjavurExplanation: The Brihadeshwara Temple, also called the “Raja Rajeswara Temple,” was built by Rajaraja Chola I at Thanjavur.
37. What was the main theme of Kalidasa’s play “Abhijnanashakuntalam”?
- A) Heroism
- B) Devotion
- C) Love and destiny
- D) PoliticsAnswer: C) Love and destinyExplanation: “Abhijnanashakuntalam” is a Sanskrit drama by Kalidasa that narrates the love story of King Dushyanta and Shakuntala.
38. Which Gupta ruler is known as the “Indian Napoleon”?
- A) Chandragupta I
- B) Chandragupta II
- C) Samudragupta
- D) SkandaguptaAnswer: C) SamudraguptaExplanation: Samudragupta earned the title "Indian Napoleon" due to his extensive military conquests.
39. Which Veda contains hymns sung during sacrifices?
- A) Rigveda
- B) Samaveda
- C) Yajurveda
- D) AtharvavedaAnswer: B) SamavedaExplanation: The Samaveda consists of hymns set to musical notes and is chanted during yajnas and rituals.
40. The Sanchi Stupa was originally built by which ruler?
- A) Chandragupta Maurya
- B) Bindusara
- C) Ashoka
- D) HarshavardhanaAnswer: C) AshokaExplanation: The Great Stupa at Sanchi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was constructed by Emperor Ashoka to house Buddhist relics.
41. The term “varna” in the Vedic period referred to what?
- A) Occupation
- B) Skin color
- C) Caste
- D) ClassAnswer: D) ClassExplanation: The term “varna” originally referred to a social classification based on duties and roles: Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras.
42. Who among the following was the last great ruler of the Gupta dynasty?
- A) Chandragupta II
- B) Kumaragupta I
- C) Skandagupta
- D) VishnuguptaAnswer: C) SkandaguptaExplanation: Skandagupta was the last powerful ruler of the Gupta dynasty, known for defending India against the Huns.
43. The doctrine of “Dhamma” was propagated by?
- A) Chandragupta Maurya
- B) Ashoka
- C) Harshavardhana
- D) SamudraguptaAnswer: B) AshokaExplanation: Ashoka propagated “Dhamma,” focusing on ethical living, tolerance, and non-violence after converting to Buddhism.
44. The Indus Valley script is primarily composed of?
- A) Pictographs
- B) Alphabets
- C) Syllables
- D) IdeogramsAnswer: A) PictographsExplanation: The Indus script comprises undeciphered pictographs and symbols, used extensively in seals and pottery.
45. The Harappan Civilization is also known as the:
- A) Indus-Saraswati Civilization
- B) Aryan Civilization
- C) Vedic Civilization
- D) Dravidian CivilizationAnswer: A) Indus-Saraswati CivilizationExplanation: The Harappan Civilization is referred to as the Indus-Saraswati Civilization because evidence of settlements has been found along both the Indus and the now-dry Saraswati River.
46. The term “Dharma Chakra Pravartana” is associated with which event in the life of Buddha?
- A) Birth of Buddha
- B) First Sermon
- C) Enlightenment
- D) Death (Mahaparinirvana)Answer: B) First SermonExplanation: “Dharma Chakra Pravartana” signifies the first sermon delivered by Gautama Buddha at Sarnath, marking the turning of the wheel of Dharma.
47. The main teaching of Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, is:
- A) Karma and Reincarnation
- B) Non-violence (Ahimsa)
- C) Worship of Deities
- D) Attainment of NirvanaAnswer: B) Non-violence (Ahimsa)Explanation: Mahavira emphasized non-violence (Ahimsa) as a core principle, encouraging followers to respect all forms of life.
48. Which ruler is credited with the construction of the Kailasa Temple at Ellora?
- A) Krishna I
- B) Pulakesin II
- C) Raja Raja Chola
- D) Chandragupta IAnswer: A) Krishna IExplanation: Krishna I of the Rashtrakuta dynasty commissioned the Kailasa Temple at Ellora, an architectural masterpiece carved out of a single rock.
49. The concept of Trimurti in Hinduism includes:
- A) Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva
- B) Agni, Indra, and Surya
- C) Lakshmi, Saraswati, and Parvati
- D) Rama, Krishna, and BuddhaAnswer: A) Brahma, Vishnu, and ShivaExplanation: The Trimurti represents the three principal aspects of divinity: Brahma (creator), Vishnu (preserver), and Shiva (destroyer).
50. What was the primary material used for constructing Indus Valley seals?
- A) Bronze
- B) Terracotta
- C) Steatite
- D) GraniteAnswer: C) SteatiteExplanation: Indus Valley seals were primarily made of steatite, a soft stone, and were used for trade and administrative purposes.
51. The Sangam Age was associated with which geographical region of India?
- A) Northern India
- B) Central India
- C) Eastern India
- D) Southern IndiaAnswer: D) Southern IndiaExplanation: The Sangam Age was centered in Tamil Nadu and other parts of southern India, flourishing with Tamil literature and culture.
52. The Rock Edicts of Ashoka are primarily written in which script?
- A) Brahmi
- B) Devanagari
- C) Tamil
- D) SanskritAnswer: A) BrahmiExplanation: The majority of Ashoka's inscriptions are in the Brahmi script, written in Prakrit language.
53. Which Indus Valley site is located in Pakistan’s Sindh province?
- A) Harappa
- B) Mohenjo-Daro
- C) Lothal
- D) DholaviraAnswer: B) Mohenjo-DaroExplanation: Mohenjo-Daro, located in Sindh, Pakistan, was one of the most prominent cities of the Indus Valley Civilization.
54. Which Gupta emperor is credited with the promotion of the Nalanda University?
- A) Chandragupta II
- B) Kumaragupta I
- C) Skandagupta
- D) SamudraguptaAnswer: B) Kumaragupta IExplanation: Kumaragupta I established and promoted Nalanda University, making it a renowned center of learning in ancient India.
55. What is the literal meaning of “Puranas”?
- A) Tales of Heroes
- B) Ancient Stories
- C) Genealogical Records
- D) Religious TeachingsAnswer: B) Ancient StoriesExplanation: The term “Purana” means “ancient stories” or “old traditions,” which are compilations of mythological and historical narratives.
56. Who among the following is called the “Prince of Pilgrims”?
- A) Fa-Hien
- B) Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang)
- C) Megasthenes
- D) Ibn BattutaAnswer: B) Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang)Explanation: Xuanzang, a Chinese traveler and scholar, is called the "Prince of Pilgrims" for his detailed accounts of Indian culture, Buddhism, and the Nalanda University.
57. The Vedanga texts are primarily related to:
- A) Medicine
- B) Philosophy
- C) Astronomy and Rituals
- D) WarfareAnswer: C) Astronomy and RitualsExplanation: Vedanga texts deal with six auxiliary sciences to understand the Vedas, including astronomy, phonetics, and rituals.
58. The Hathigumpha inscription in Odisha is associated with which ruler?
- A) Kharavela
- B) Ashoka
- C) Harsha
- D) BindusaraAnswer: A) KharavelaExplanation: The Hathigumpha inscription is attributed to Kharavela, the Jain king of the Kalinga dynasty, and provides details of his achievements.
59. Which script did Harappans use for writing?
- A) Pali
- B) Dravidian
- C) Pictographic
- D) SanskritAnswer: C) PictographicExplanation: The Harappans used a pictographic script, but it remains undeciphered to date.
60. The Fourth Buddhist Council was held in which region?
- A) Magadha
- B) Kashmir
- C) Sarnath
- D) Bodh GayaAnswer: B) KashmirExplanation: The Fourth Buddhist Council was held in Kashmir under the patronage of King Kanishka, where Mahayana Buddhism was codified.
61. The term “Aryavarta” in ancient Indian texts refers to:
- A) Southern India
- B) Eastern India
- C) Northern India
- D) Western IndiaAnswer: C) Northern IndiaExplanation: Aryavarta, meaning the "Land of the Aryans," refers to northern India, particularly the Gangetic plains.
62. The “Prayaga Prashasti” inscription was composed by which poet?
- A) Kalidasa
- B) Harisena
- C) Banabhatta
- D) DandinAnswer: B) HarisenaExplanation: The Prayaga Prashasti, or Allahabad Pillar Inscription, was composed by Harisena, a court poet of Samudragupta, detailing the emperor's conquests and achievements.
63. The first metal used by humans during the Chalcolithic Age was:
- A) Iron
- B) Bronze
- C) Copper
- D) GoldAnswer: C) CopperExplanation: Copper was the first metal extensively used by humans during the Chalcolithic Age for making tools and ornaments.
64. The practice of land revenue assessment called “Bali” is mentioned in which period?
- A) Rigvedic Period
- B) Mauryan Period
- C) Gupta Period
- D) Sangam PeriodAnswer: A) Rigvedic PeriodExplanation: During the Rigvedic period, “Bali” referred to voluntary offerings or tribute given to the king.
65. In the Later Vedic period, society was divided into how many varnas?
- A) Three
- B) Four
- C) Five
- D) SixAnswer: B) FourExplanation: The Later Vedic period saw the formal division of society into four varnas: Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras.
66. The Mesolithic rock paintings in Bhimbetka are located in which Indian state?
- A) Rajasthan
- B) Madhya Pradesh
- C) Odisha
- D) KarnatakaAnswer: B) Madhya PradeshExplanation: Bhimbetka, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Madhya Pradesh, has Mesolithic rock paintings showcasing prehistoric art.
67. During the Mauryan Empire, which official was responsible for agriculture?
- A) Amatyas
- B) Sannidhata
- C) Sitadhyaksha
- D) AkaradhyakshaAnswer: C) SitadhyakshaExplanation: The Sitadhyaksha was the officer in charge of agricultural activities in the Mauryan administrative system.
68. The famous “Dholavira” site is known for which significant feature?
- A) Seals with scripts
- B) Drainage system
- C) Water reservoir system
- D) GranariesAnswer: C) Water reservoir systemExplanation: Dholavira, a prominent Harappan site in Gujarat, is famous for its advanced water conservation and reservoir systems.
69. Who was the founder of the Satavahana dynasty?
- A) Simuka
- B) Gautamiputra Satakarni
- C) Pulumavi
- D) HalaAnswer: A) SimukaExplanation: Simuka is regarded as the founder of the Satavahana dynasty, which played a significant role in Indian history.
70. The Great Bath of Mohenjo-Daro was likely used for:
- A) Water storage
- B) Religious rituals
- C) Bathing purposes
- D) Rainwater harvestingAnswer: B) Religious ritualsExplanation: The Great Bath of Mohenjo-Daro is believed to have been used for religious or ceremonial purposes due to its structure and significance.
71. “Sulva Sutras” are ancient texts dealing with:
- A) Astronomy
- B) Mathematics and Geometry
- C) Medicine
- D) MusicAnswer: B) Mathematics and GeometryExplanation: Sulva Sutras are Vedic texts that provide rules for the geometric construction of altars used in sacrificial ceremonies.
72. Which Buddhist council was responsible for the division between Hinayana and Mahayana sects?
- A) First
- B) Second
- C) Third
- D) FourthAnswer: B) SecondExplanation: The Second Buddhist Council, held at Vaishali, led to the division between Hinayana and Mahayana sects due to disagreements over monastic practices.
73. Which Gupta ruler assumed the title “Vikramaditya”?
- A) Chandragupta I
- B) Chandragupta II
- C) Samudragupta
- D) Kumaragupta IAnswer: B) Chandragupta IIExplanation: Chandragupta II adopted the title “Vikramaditya,” symbolizing his strength, valor, and cultural achievements.
74. The "Nagara," "Dravida," and "Vesara" architectural styles pertain to:
- A) Sculpture
- B) Painting
- C) Temple Architecture
- D) Vedic AltarsAnswer: C) Temple ArchitectureExplanation: These are the three primary styles of ancient Indian temple architecture. Nagara was prevalent in the north, Dravida in the south, and Vesara was a mix of both.
75. The Mahajanapada of Magadha first rose to prominence under which dynasty?
- A) Haryanka
- B) Maurya
- C) Gupta
- D) ShungaAnswer: A) HaryankaExplanation: The Haryanka dynasty laid the foundation for Magadha's rise to power, with Bimbisara being a notable ruler.
76. The “Amravati School of Art” flourished under which dynasty?
- A) Kushana
- B) Satavahana
- C) Gupta
- D) MauryaAnswer: B) SatavahanaExplanation: The Amravati School of Art, known for its intricate sculptures and Buddhist themes, flourished under the Satavahanas in southern India.
77. The language predominantly used in the Vedic literature is:
- A) Pali
- B) Prakrit
- C) Sanskrit
- D) DravidianAnswer: C) SanskritExplanation: The Vedic texts, including the Rigveda, were composed in Sanskrit, the sacred language of ancient India.
78. In which city was the Jataka tales initially sculpted in bas-relief form?
- A) Sanchi
- B) Ajanta
- C) Bharhut
- D) ElloraAnswer: C) BharhutExplanation: The Bharhut Stupa contains some of the earliest sculptural depictions of the Jataka tales, narrating the previous lives of Buddha.
79. The term “Gahapati” in ancient India referred to:
- A) Priest
- B) Merchant
- C) Head of a household
- D) King’s officerAnswer: C) Head of a householdExplanation: Gahapati referred to the head of a household, typically managing family land and resources during the Vedic period.
80. The Indica, a book providing a detailed account of Mauryan India, was written by:
- A) Pliny the Elder
- B) Megasthenes
- C) Ptolemy
- D) Al-BiruniAnswer: B) MegasthenesExplanation: Megasthenes, the Greek ambassador to Chandragupta Maurya’s court, wrote "Indica," offering a detailed description of Mauryan society.
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81. Who among the following composed the famous Sanskrit epic “Shakuntala”?
- A) Valmiki
- B) Kalidasa
- C) Banabhatta
- D) VyasaAnswer: B) KalidasaExplanation: Kalidasa, one of the greatest Sanskrit poets and dramatists, composed the famous play Abhijnanashakuntalam, widely regarded as a masterpiece.
82. The term “Rajatarangini,” a historical chronicle of Kashmir, was authored by:
- A) Kalhana
- B) Hiuen Tsang
- C) Harsha
- D) BanaAnswer: A) KalhanaExplanation: Rajatarangini was written by Kalhana in the 12th century, documenting the history of the kings of Kashmir.
83. Which of the following was an important port town during the Sangam Age?
- A) Puhar
- B) Lothal
- C) Kalibangan
- D) SanchiAnswer: A) PuharExplanation: Puhar, also known as Kaveripattinam, was a significant port town during the Sangam Age and served as a trade hub.
84. Ashoka’s emblem, later adopted as India’s national emblem, features which animal prominently?
- A) Lion
- B) Elephant
- C) Tiger
- D) HorseAnswer: A) LionExplanation: The Lion Capital of Ashoka at Sarnath, featuring four lions, was adopted as India’s national emblem.
85. The “Gandhara School of Art” is characterized by:
- A) Persian Influence
- B) Roman and Greek Influence
- C) Dravidian Influence
- D) Chinese InfluenceAnswer: B) Roman and Greek InfluenceExplanation: The Gandhara School of Art blended Indian themes with Roman and Greek artistic styles, evident in Buddhist sculptures.
86. The "Sapta Sindhu" region mentioned in the Rigveda refers to:
- A) The Himalayan region
- B) The Deccan Plateau
- C) Land of Seven Rivers
- D) The Vindhyan rangeAnswer: C) Land of Seven RiversExplanation: Sapta Sindhu refers to the region of seven rivers, primarily located in present-day Punjab and its surrounding areas.
87. The famous “Iron Pillar” at Mehrauli was erected during the reign of:
- A) Ashoka
- B) Chandragupta II
- C) Samudragupta
- D) HarshaAnswer: B) Chandragupta IIExplanation: The Iron Pillar at Mehrauli, known for its rust-resistant properties, was erected during the reign of Chandragupta II.
88. The coins of the Gupta period were predominantly made of:
- A) Gold
- B) Silver
- C) Copper
- D) IronAnswer: A) GoldExplanation: Gupta coins were primarily made of gold and are celebrated for their artistic and detailed craftsmanship.
89. The term “Janapada” in ancient India refers to:
- A) A dynasty
- B) A tribal confederation
- C) A territory or kingdom
- D) A council of ministersAnswer: C) A territory or kingdomExplanation: Janapadas were early territorial states in ancient India that emerged during the Vedic period.
90. Which Mauryan ruler converted to Jainism and abdicated the throne?
- A) Bindusara
- B) Chandragupta Maurya
- C) Ashoka
- D) DasharathaAnswer: B) Chandragupta MauryaExplanation: Chandragupta Maurya converted to Jainism, abdicated the throne, and spent his last years in meditation at Shravanabelagola.
91. The Upanishads are philosophical texts that primarily deal with:
- A) Rituals
- B) Stories and Legends
- C) Meditations and Spiritual Knowledge
- D) Law and AdministrationAnswer: C) Meditations and Spiritual KnowledgeExplanation: The Upanishads focus on meditation, spirituality, and the philosophical aspects of the self and universe.
92. The earliest evidence of agriculture in the Indian subcontinent comes from which site?
- A) Harappa
- B) Mehrgarh
- C) Mohenjo-Daro
- D) KalibanganAnswer: B) MehrgarhExplanation: Mehrgarh, located in present-day Pakistan, provides the earliest evidence of agriculture and domestication in the Indian subcontinent.
93. The Sabha and Samiti were important institutions during which period?
- A) Vedic Period
- B) Mauryan Period
- C) Gupta Period
- D) Sangam AgeAnswer: A) Vedic PeriodExplanation: During the Vedic Period, the Sabha and Samiti were assemblies that played significant roles in governance and decision-making.
94. Which dynasty issued coins with “Kalima” inscribed on them?
- A) Maurya
- B) Delhi Sultanate
- C) Gupta
- D) KushanaAnswer: B) Delhi SultanateExplanation: The Delhi Sultanate rulers issued coins bearing the Kalima, reflecting the Islamic faith.
95. The famous Vishnu temple at Angkor Wat was built by rulers of which dynasty?
- A) Pallava
- B) Khmer
- C) Chola
- D) GuptaAnswer: B) KhmerExplanation: The Khmer rulers of Cambodia built Angkor Wat, initially dedicated to Lord Vishnu before it became a Buddhist temple.
96. The Nalanda University was a major center of learning during the reign of:
- A) Mauryan Empire
- B) Gupta Empire
- C) Chola Empire
- D) Kushan EmpireAnswer: B) Gupta EmpireExplanation: Nalanda University flourished under Gupta rulers, especially during Kumaragupta I’s reign.
97. Which ancient text is considered the foundation of Indian mathematics?
- A) Aryabhatiya
- B) Lilavati
- C) Sulva Sutras
- D) RigvedaAnswer: C) Sulva SutrasExplanation: The Sulva Sutras provided the foundational principles of geometry and mathematics in ancient India.
98. Which Harappan site is famous for its dockyard?
- A) Kalibangan
- B) Mohenjo-Daro
- C) Lothal
- D) RakhigarhiAnswer: C) LothalExplanation: Lothal, located in Gujarat, is known for its dockyard, suggesting advanced maritime trade.
99. The Rigvedic society primarily practiced:
- A) Nomadic pastoralism
- B) Agriculture-based economy
- C) Urbanization
- D) Trade and commerceAnswer: A) Nomadic pastoralismExplanation: Rigvedic society was predominantly pastoral, with cattle being a significant marker of wealth.
100. The founder of the Kushana dynasty was:
- A) Kanishka
- B) Vasudeva
- C) Kujula Kadphises
- D) HuvishkaAnswer: C) Kujula KadphisesExplanation: Kujula Kadphises founded the Kushana dynasty, which played a crucial role in the spread of Buddhism across Central and South Asia.